It was just his third NRL game, however Braydon Trindall displayed guile, creativity and the organisation ability of a seasoned veteran in the Sharks round 16 victory over the Cowboys.
In what was an eventful night for the 21-year-old, Trindall unlucky not to get amongst the try scorers having two four-pointers disallowed, he had a couple of try assists for teammates, kicked four goals from five attempts, while impressing with a strong defensive effort, with Sharks members and fans overwhelmingly recognising the young half as the Fan Poll Man of the Match.
Trindall, who was only called into the Sharks squad when Shaun Johnson was forced to withdraw late in the week with hamstring issues, polled 55 per cent of the vote, well clear of Will Kennedy, with the young fullback also having arguably his best game in the top grade.
Kennedy was safe at the back and took his support play to another level, with his line break and an assist for a Connor Tracey try a highlight of his performance.
With 17 per cent of the Fan Poll vote Kennedy was a clear second choice, ahead of Briton Nikora (6%) in what marked a spectacular return to form for the young Kiwi.
Nikora crossed for the Sharks first try and supplied the final pass for another early in the second half in a display which showed just how dangerous he can be when at or near his best.
Hooker Blayke Brailey, lock Toby Rudolf and Trindall’s halves partner in Tracey were also amongst those recognised for their strong performances with votes in the Fan Poll.
In relation to the Fan Poll Player of the Year, the yearly tally has gone behind closed doors, with the winner and final points table to be revealed at the end of the 2020 season.
