Leeds Rhinos’ mid-season mover Tui Lolohea pipped for international Golden Boot award by Kiwi Roger Tuivasa-Sheck

Lolohea, who began 2019 with Rhinos before a mid-season move to Salford Red Devils, was nominated for the Golden Boot award following his efforts in Test matches for Tonga.

But the honour – judged by a panel drawn from the rugby league media and based on performances in international games during the calendar year – went to New Zealand’s Roger Tuivasa-Sheck.

Australia Jillaroos star Jessica Sergis won the women’s Golden Boot.

The panel hailed Sergis as “a dynamic runner on every play” and added: “She is an entertainer who knows how to find the line and the perfect role model for young girls and boys everywhere.”

Of Tuivasa-Sheck, the panel said: “[He is] a full-back of rare quality, who is safe under pressure and has a devastating ability to turn defence into attack with brilliant footwork and superb passing skills.

“He has a genuine x-factor, is a game breaker and his running metres have been exceptional.”

International Rugby League’s chief executive officer, Nigel Wood said: “It is really important that International Rugby League recognises the players who put in consistently excellent performances representing their country at the highest level.

“Jessica has had a fantastic 2019 season, she is an exciting player with exceptional skills and great tenacity.

“Roger is one of the most exciting runners we have seen in rugby league and to win the Golden Boot in such a stellar year is a great testimony to the quality of his performances.

“I would like to congratulate both the winners and also commend the players who ran them close for these awards.

“It all confirms the excitement and the quality that is produced by international rugby league and builds the anticipation for 2020 and then into Rugby League World Cup 2021.”