THE duel for the best hooker of the decade is a straightforward one between Keiron Cunningham and James Roby.
Cunningham played 496 times for the Saints, but only played one year in the decade we are voting on.
2010 was a tough year; Saints’ pack had been depleted and the back line had been hit with injuries.
However, the twin emotions of this being Saints’ last season at Knowsley Road and Cunningham’s final games in the red vee fuelled an extra push by the skipper.
Cunningham scored in each of the last three games at Knowsley Road, including the late try against Castleford that earned Saints a home play-off draw.
Trademark tries against Warrington and Huddersfield in the play-off followed as Cunningham led Saints to the Grand Final against Wigan. Alas there would be no fairytale ending.
James Roby started his career as Cunningham’s understudy - with his speed and agility providing a contrast to the master.
But he has been his own man this decade, turning the job back into an 80-minute role with his workrate in defence complementing his vision and dynamism from dummy half.
He may have lost a yard or two in pace, but that has been compensated by his top two inches.
Vote online, or email to mike.critchley@nqnw.co.uk by December 22.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel