Last updated at 12:32, Monday, 19 November 2012

Inspirational veteran Leroy Joe generously shared the plaudits after guiding Wath Brow Hornets to their first National Conference League Grand Final win against Hull-based Myton yesterday.

Wath Brow's Matt Huby, left, and Leroy Joe lift the trophy

The Kiwi stand-off picked up the man of the match honour in the 22-6 success at Widnes, but believes forwards Richard Huby, James Dixon or Jamie Devine could easily have instead collected the accolade.

“I won it on the back of their good work,” said the ex-Haven legend, who created his side’s opening two tries. “They could have given it to any of them and I wouldn’t have been bothered.

“Three or four players could have won it – they deserved it as much as anyone.”

Myton made the Hornets fight hard for the title, and the rivals were locked at 6-all at the break.

“I’m tired and my knees are sore,” laughed 37-year-old Joe, after his massive effort. “I’m just happy for all our young lads, the club and Cleator Moor as a whole. I also have to give coach Ian Rooney a rap. It’s fantastic.

“All credit to Myton, they really put us to the sword in the first-half and have a big pack of tough hombres.

“Our attack wasn’t quite right in the first-half, but we made a few adjustments and brought home the bacon in the end.

“All credit to our boys.”

Joe started to feature for the Brow last year, following his retirement from the Recre after scoring more than 100 tries for Haven in a glittering pro career.

But he sidestepped questions over whether he will turn out again for the Hornets next term, when he will be 38.

“Ask me in a couple of weeks when pre-season starts,” he quipped. “I want to enjoy this moment for the time being.”

First published at 11:42, Monday, 19 November 2012
Published by http://www.newsandstar.co.uk