In 2015, Wests Tigers centre Tim Simona enjoyed his healthiest year so far in his short career, playing in 20 of the possible 24 matches throughout the season.
After starting the season with three tries and six try-assists in his first seven games, Simona suffered a syndesmosis injury to his ankle while playing for Toa Samoa against Tonga in the Pacific Test during the representative weekend — keeping him out until Round 11.
His return to the side against the Cowboys was short lived; again succumbing to an ankle injury that would rule him out for a further two weeks until Round 14.
Upon his return, however, Simona would finish the year in strong fashion — ending the season with five tries and 10 try-assists, the third-highest in the team for 2015.
The centre was also named for his potential international debut for New Zealand after being named in the train-on squad for the Kiwis' three-game series against England.
Year in Numbers
Games |
Tries |
Goals |
Points |
Metres |
Runs |
Tackles |
20 |
5 |
- |
20 |
1933m |
193 |
220 |
Best Game — Round 25 vs. Warriors at Campbelltown
In Wests Tigers' big 50-16 victory, Simona produced one of his best performances of the season, with the the Auckland-born centre chalking up191 metres from just 10 runs, while also adding a try, two line breaks and two offloads in the 34-point win.
His try was particularly memorable, with the centre burning right past Warriors fullback Sam Tomkins before racing 50m to score in front of the Campbelltown crowd.
Season Highlight — Round 6 vs.Warriors at Mount Smart Stadium
His two-try effort against the Warriors might not have been enough for Wests Tigers to conjure up a victory, but the centre was still one of the best on ground at Mount Smart Stadium. In particular, his individual effort in the second half which saw him fend off two representative players Konrad Hurrell and Shaun Johnson, was one of the standout highlights from the night as the Warriors held on to post a 32-22 win.
Milestones and Achievements
Rep. Honours — Samoa (Pacific Test), New Zealand train-on squad
50th NRL game — Round 16 vs. Penrith Panthers (Leichhardt Oval, 28/6/15)
