Brett Stewart more than a pretty face
September 9th 2008 08:46
Although the 'sexiest man in League' title would convince any woman to watch Manly Sea Eagles fullback Brett Stewart play, there is more than meets the eye when it comes to the NRL's most potent attacking weapon.
Who would have thought Ken Irvine's try scoring record was under so much threat? No one. That was until Stewart made his NRL debut for Manly back in 2003.
From there, Stewart now exercises the speed and instinctive insight that has seen him score 89 tries in just 109 appearances for the Sea Eagles.
Indeed it is no surprise then to see him top the try scoring charts this season with 19 four pointers next to his name.
It is the best strike rate in the NRL and it is one that refuels a man who was diagnosed with type one Diabetes at the age of fourteen.
When people interpret Stewart, they say he is fast, freakish and a nightmare to defend against.
But what sometimes goes unnoticed is his defence.
Stewart has made a habit of perfecting the craft of the sliding tackle, which has seen him save both the Sea Eagles' and NSW's backside's in the past.
Back when he made his debut for West Wollongong, talent scouts knew they had spotted a Rugby League phenomenon, who had to deal with more obstacles than journalists at the Beijing Olympics.
But Stewart has proceeded well and now approaches his fourth finals series in a row. In a Manly side full of grunt and determination, he is the spark at the back and the unprecedented king of Brookvale Oval.
As the pressure of success gradually builds for Stewart, he alone will amplify his work rate and tenacity to perform at the elite level,which has garnered him five Origins for NSW and 1 test for Australia.
If you need any further prove of his courage, just catch a glimpse of Stewart's body lying soulless in last years Grand Final loss to the Melbourne Storm at ANZ stadium.
Storm backrower Michael Crocker wiped the Manly fullback out of reckoning for the rest of the match. And many thought for the rest of the off season.
Eight days later and Stewart found himself in an Australian jersey, scoring two tries in the Kangaroos record win over the Kiwis.
That effort alone resembles a player who is more than just a sex symbol off the field.
Stewart has now been patronised by all the Manly faithful for his efforts. No doubt Stewart will recieve more than hugs and kisses if he can guide Manly to a Premiership in League's centenary year.
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Comment by Jess.
He is an absolute darling, and i truly love him.
he is so amazingly talented and so beautiful.
what more could anyone want?
Comment by Alan
Its no secret then that you voted him to be league's sexiest player. You are not alone. Its good to see fans appreciate everything Stewart has given rugby league in general.