LeagueNews.co | Nick Loken
In a remarkable achievement, Addin Fonua-Blake of the New Zealand Warriors has been announced as the 2023 VB Hard Earned Hero.
The powerful prop, who represents Mate Ma'a Tonga at the international level, amassed an impressive total of 1745 points from 23 games throughout the season.
This placed him 12 points ahead of Brisbane's Payne Haas in the race for the prestigious accolade.
The stage is set for an exciting showdown between these two formidable players, as they face off in the second NRL preliminary final at Suncorp Stadium tonight.
Fonua-Blake's recognition as the VB Hard Earned Hero is just one of his recent accomplishments.
He has also been named as one of the five finalists for The Players' Champion award and earned a spot in the Dream Team, both of which are determined by player votes.
Both Fonua-Blake and Haas have consistently showcased their exceptional skills this season.
Fonua-Blake featured in the VB Team of the Week for an impressive 22 out of 27 rounds, while Haas secured a spot 19 times, making them the two most reliable performers in the league.
Furthermore, Fonua-Blake topped the charts for post-contact metres, recording a staggering 1515, with Haas not far behind in second place with 1453.