Petero Civoniceva Medal update: Burns and Sailor surge up the ladder

"We’ve tried as a team to give him the momentum that he needs to play off," Elliott said.

"He’s very, very good at identifying where he needs to be in the line and defenders he needs to get to but also very, very creative.

"One on one, he’s hard to handle. 

"He’s such a great competitor. He competes hard on everything. He’s really enjoyed coming back here. He was at the Devils and loved that previously. There were really good players here at that point and he was young.

"He’s certainly enjoying himself and regardless of who you are, if you’re enjoying yourself, you’re playing your best footy. 

"He had a really good pre-season and it gave him confidence as well. I know that’s what he’s gunning for, like any other player. He’s after an NRL deal somewhere.

"If he keeps playing the way he’s going, someone will come knocking, that’s for sure."

While Burns often gets most attention for his talent in attack, Elliott has particularly been impressed with his defensive skillset.

"The most enjoyable part of Gerome’s game at the moment is his attitude to his D," Elliott said.

"He’s a really strong defender for a half. He loves contact, kick-chase, he competes on every play... we probably didn’t know that about him.

"Everyone knows Gerome for his attacking flair. But he’s been outstanding defensively."

The leaders after Round 4 - Sam Coster and Trai Fuller - now sit in third and fourth respectively, with Coster surrounded by a number of others players also on eight points.

Fuller meanwhile has been playing with the NRL Dolphins in recent weeks and is on seven points alongside PNG Hunters fullback, Sanny Wabo.

The standings following Round 9 are below, with the top nine players listed.

Voting will go behind closed doors at the conclusion of Round 12.

Petero Civoniceva Medal standings after Round 9

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