The Night of NRL Nights is here and while the 2020 Dally M Medal event will look a little different, the winner will be no less deserving.
West Tigers rookie Harry Grant led the vote when he was behind closed doors after lap 12.
But he’s got a hot field on his tail, led by Penrith’s center-back Nathan Cleary, who has led his team to a grand final.
Cleary is often encouraged by fans and experts to win the grand prize for his accomplishments for the Panthers this year.
Don’t miss a minute of Fox League’s exclusive night coverage of the Dally M Awards by listening to Kayo live. New to Kayo? Get your 14-day free trial and start streaming right away>
The coverage begins with a special NRL 360 episode at 6:30 p.m., followed by the main event live in the Fox League at 7:30 p.m. hosted by Yvonne Sampson.
“MUCH RATHER PLAYING SUNDAY”
One of the top contestants for Dally M Player of the Year has recognized the brutal reality of receiving awards in the broader context of the NRL season.
Eels skipper Clinton Gutherson was one vote back from leader Harry Grant in 10 rounds, after which the Dally M-votes went behind closed doors.
He is fighting for the top gong and fullback of the year, but told Fox Sports’ NRL Tonight it was just consolation for Parramatta’s bitter finale.
“They don’t actually play the game to get the awards,” Gutherson said.
“I would much rather play on Sunday. It would be a great way to end that, but there are some great players out there who have played exceptional footy.
“I’m just happy to be here … it’s just a great night. And to be mentioned with some of the game’s big names. “
LEADING CONTENT
Working against Cleary will be the fact that he was banned for two games for his TikTok gaffe between rounds 2 and 3 during the coronavirus shutdown.
In addition to the Dally M Grand Prize, there are a number of other awards that must be given.
A newly designed 13-person team of the year as well as the best rookie, the best trainer and the best captain of the season are recognized.
ULTIMATE GUIDE: Everything You Need To Know About The 2020 Dally M Medal
Cleary favors for Dally M.
4:04
The awards ceremony will not be held in front of the usual hundreds of people due to COVID restrictions.
It will take place in the Fox Sports building this year and will be broadcast live on the Fox League and Kayo for everyone to follow.
DALLY M LEADERBOARD AFTER LAP 12
13 Harry Grant
12 Cameron Smith, Clint Gutherson
11 Jason Taumalolo, Shaun Johnson, and Nathan Cleary
10 Jack Wighton
9 Benji Marshall, Matt Dufty and Tom Trbojevic
8 George Williams
7 James Tedesco, Api Koroisau, Cameron Münster, James Fisher-Harris, Luke Keary, Moeaki Fotuaika, Ryan Papenhuyzen
Panthers scratch into the final
2:43
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