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| Sunday, 5 May, 2002, 17:41 GMT 18:41 UK Hetherington is April ace ![]() London Broncos captain Jason Hetherington is BBC Sport Online's Rugby League Personality of the Month for April. The 31-year-old hooker pipped Challenge Cup hero Kris Radlinski and Wigan coach Stuart Raper to the award. "Things are going pretty well," said Hetherington, a former Australian international. "We've taken a couple of big scalps this season and it's amazing what that has done for everyone's confidence." Hetherington has played a key role for London after missing the start of the season with a shoulder injury.
Now fully fit, the former Canterbury player is leading by example as the Broncos attempt to force their way into play-off contention. The top six did not look a realistic proposition after a heavy opening defeat by Leeds Rhinos. But Tony Rea's side have bounced back with several impressive wins, notably against St Helens and Bradford Bulls. The dramatic 15-14 victory over the Bulls was one of three Tetley's Super League successes in April. It followed a narrow defeat at Hull and preceded further wins over Halifax and Warrington. "It was bitterly disappointing to lose to Hull because we were in control of the game," said Hetherington. "But the win over Bradford was terrific."
The judging panel of Ray French, Dave Woods and Sport Online's Phil Gordos felt that Hetherington's leadership skills were pivotal to London's revival. "The Broncos are beginning to look a good bet for the play-offs and you have to point to Jason's influence as a key factor," said French. "As a captain should, he leads by example and puts his body on the line every time he steps out onto the pitch." Woods said: "Jason has been instrumental in London's resurgence. "He never shuns a confrontation and is an inspiration to the rest of the players." Gordos added: "If London clinch a top-six finish this year then I have no doubt that Hetherington will have played a major role. He is a formidable player." Widnes coach Neil Kelly was the inaugural winner of the BBC Sport Online Rugby League Personality of the Month award. |
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