NRL Grand Final 2020: Stats place Panthers forward Liam Martin among big game’s best athletes

Exclusive Telstra Tracker data has unearthed surprise findings on the two NRL grand final teams — including the fastest and most hardworking forward set to run on to ANZ Stadium.

SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA – OCTOBER 02: Liam Martin of the Panthers is tackled during the NRL Qualifying Final match between the Penrith Panthers and the Sydney Roosters at Panthers Stadium on October 02, 2020 in Sydney, Australia. (Photo by Mark Kolbe/Getty Images)

Liam Martin is the fastest of any NRL grand final forward.

Covers most ground, too.

But what Penrith favourite Scott Sattler loves most about this workaholic Temora product?

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Liam Martin is a real workaholic in the Panthers pack.

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“The way he protects Nathan Cleary,” he says.

“Yes, we see how quick, powerful and aggressive Liam is. But defensively, this is the guy who protects the Panther’s greatest asset. Not a lot of people recognise it. Or discuss it.

“Because when it comes to backrowers, everyone is always thinking about their attack. But I’ve always thought your most important job as a backrower is to protect the playmaker. Because if you’re going to win games, it will be because of them. And Liam Martin protects Cleary like he’s family.”

Does plenty more, too.

According to exclusive Telstra Tracker data, 23-year-old Martin is the fastest and most hardworking of any forward to run onto ANZ Stadium on Sunday.

In fact, the Panthers No. 12 is one of only four players across both teams who sit top 10 across the three key measuring areas – maximum speed, distance covered and high speed efforts.

Panthers player are obviously appreciative of the efforts of Liam Martin.

Apart from reaching a top speed of 33km/hr this year, Martin also covers 8.5km per game and averages 23 high speed efforts – or runs above 20km/h.

Overall, the best Telstra Tracker performers are the opposing fullbacks – Ryan Papenhuyzen for Melbourne, and Dylan Edwards at the Panthers.

Elsewhere, Addo-Carr remains the game’s fastest player, with a top speed this year of 37.2km/h, while Panthers halfback Nathan Cleary covers 9.5km per game.

Next best is halves partner Jarome Luai, with 8.8km.

Quizzed on the Panthers chances against favourites Melbourne, Sattler said: “I’m excited and certainly don’t question them like so many other have been. Everyone has questioned their lack of experience. Questioned their ability to keep the streak alive. Everyone has been waiting for them to fall over. But mate, they’re Might and Power. They’re the frontrunners.”

While as for the Storm?

“Playing Melbourne, it’s death by a thousand cuts,” the 2003 premiership hero continued.

“So the question will be, are Penrith willing to go 73 minutes with them at 6-4, against the greatest player of all time in Cameron Smith and still be able to pull the trigger?”

Dylan Edwards covers some territory.

Asked to compare this mob to his ‘03 heroes, Sattler added: “They’re a better defensive side than we were.

“They’ve also proved they can flick the switch and play in different rhythms throughout a game.

“For 10 minute periods they can slow the pace down, gather their thoughts and get back into routine. Then on the back of one effort they can click to another gear, ask the opposition to try and go with them. They really are a frightening team to play against.”