Tamika Upton needed just 50 minutes to remind people why she should be regarded as the game’s best NRLW fullback and why her departure from the Broncos will be their biggest ever loss.
Upton was awarded the 2022 Karyn Murphy medal following a player-of-the-match performance in Sunday's 32-12 grand final win over the Eels, capping a remarkable move from the Broncos to Newcastle.
The 25-year-old from Rockhampton arrived to the Hunter with plenty of expectations, none more so then when the debate began earlier this year around who is the game's No.1 fullback in the game.
Dragons fullback Emma Tonegato was coming off a stellar 2021 season and rightfully earned the honour of the competition's best player alongside Millie Boyle in April.
But this is Upton's house, the competition's all-time leading tryscorer now claiming a third NRLW title and repaying the Knights' decision to go after the fullback in spades.
Upton shows her class
What can’t be ignored is Upton’s effort areas in defence and her communication in the line while her ability under the high ball has it over several of her rivals.
Even up until the final moments of the match, when she put her body on the line in the air, this fullback has it all.
Match Highlights: Panthers v Devils
"Obviously it's really special," a humble Upton said post-match.
"I went out there to do my job and I think all the other girls did too. The effort we have is unreal.
"This is up there with [the best premiership won], just how close we've become. I only met most of these girls a couple of months ago and they're some of my best friends already.
"To do be able to do this for the people of Newcastle, it's pretty special."
Asked about being the best fullback in the game, Upton said she didn't want to join in on the debate.
"I don't listen to any of it, I think most of the fullbacks in our game are pretty amazing in their own right," Upton said.
"I don't want to compare myself to them. We're all completely different players."
The next thing to await Upton is a Jillaroos jersey, which she could earn with selection in the World Cup squad on Monday.
If the Knights are smart, when she returns they'll be signing her up long-term.
"We have some really good systems at the Knights with young girls coming through so hopefully we retain as many as we can," Upton said.
"I'd love to stay."
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