Adrian Lam labels Edwin Ipape’s Man of Steel favourite tag “unfair”

Leigh coach Adrian Lam has labelled the Man of Steel favourites tag given to Edwin Ipape by the bookmakers as “unfair”.

Super League’s title sponsors Betfred have got Ipape as the joint-favourite to scoop this year’s Steve Prescott Man of Steel award alongside St Helens’ Jack Welsby at 11/1.

Papua New Guinea international Ipape played a key role in helping Leigh win promotion to Super League last year. He was named the Championship Player of the Year for 2022.

But Lam believes Ipape is capable of winning the prestigious award in years to come, but thinks it is unfair to have him as favourite this season.

The Leopards coach told Love Rugby League: “I think that’s a little bit unfair in the sense that it’s adding extra pressure on someone who doesn’t need it, who hasn’t even played a game of Super League or NRL yet.

“I think that’s a little bit unfair but I get that it’s a talking point for the sport, and for us as a club its good.

“I think he’ll be there but it might take him one or two years longer than what they’re saying. But if he does, then we’ll be doing well as a club.”

Adrian Lam on Edwin Ipape best position

Ipape linked up with Leigh ahead of last season and quickly became a fan favourite on the terraces at the Leigh Sports Village. He scored 23 tries in 27 games as Leigh clinched promotion.

And his impressive year didn’t stop there. The 24-year-old represented Papua New Guinea at the end of year World Cup, playing in every game.

Ipape’s best position is hooker, according to his fellow countryman Lam.

“He came through as a half but I think nine is the one where he will cause damage over here in Super League,” Lam added. “I think there are opportunities for him to create that in matches.”

Man of Steel odds

Edwin Ipape (Leigh) 11/1

Jack Welsby (St Helens) 11/1

Bevan French (Wigan) 14/1

Brodie Croft (Salford) 16/1

George Williams (Warrington) 16/1

Jake Clifford (Hull FC) 16/1

Jai Field (Wigan) 16/1

Aidan Sezer (Leeds) 16/1

Tex Hoy (Hull FC) 16/1

Jonny Lomax (St Helens) 16/1

Leigh get their Super League campaign underway on Friday night against neighbours Salford, live on Sky Sports. Indie rock band Scouting for Girls will perform a set before the teams enter the field.

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