SYDNEY - Francis Meli is the sole New Zealand Warriors' representative in a National Rugby League team of the year, named last night at the fourth annual Footy Show awards.
Meli, who has scored a club record 23 tries so far this year, was named on the wing with North Queensland's
Matt Sing.
They were selected ahead of fellow contenders Kiwis' representative Matt Utai of the Bulldogs and Newcastle's Timana Tahu.
The team was dominated by the Penrith Panthers, the Warriors' obstacle on Sunday to a second successive grand final appearance on October 5.
Rhys Wesser was selected at fullback while Kiwis Tony Puletua and Joe Galuvao were judged the premier second row combination.
Captain Craig Gower was chosen at halfback ahead of injured Kangaroos skipper Andrew Johns and Melbourne's Matt Orford.
Gower also received the top accolade -- player of the year -- while coach John Lang was a popular choice as coach of the year.
Warriors' hardman Richard Villasanti missed out on a frontrow berth but he was honoured with the Hit of the Year award in recognition for his bone-jarring tackle on Brisbane and Kangaroos prop Shane Webcke earlier this month.
The television show's awards effectively replaced the NRL's Dally M Awards that were cancelled this month following a dispute between the organisation and the players' association.
Team of the year: Rhys Wesser (Penrith), Matt Sing (North Queensland), Francis Meli (New Zealand Warriors), Matt Gidley (Newcastle), Nigel Vagana (Bulldogs), Brad Fittler (Roosters), Craig Gower (Penrith), Luke Bailey (St George Illawarra), Danny Buderus (Newcastle), Shane Webcke (Brisbane), Joe Galuvao (Penrith), Tony Puletua (Penrith), Luke Ricketson (Roosters).
Player of the year: Craig Gower; Coach: John Lang (Penrith).
- NZPA
