Lantrak Man of the Match: Round 5

Wests Tigers halfback Luke Brooks has been named the Lantrak Man of the Match following his superb performance against the Melbourne Storm.

While the headlines might fall to Benji Marshall for his match-winning field goal or Chris Lawrence for his record-breaking try, it was Brooks who stood up when needed for his side time and time again on Saturday — refusing to give in against the Storm and eventually getting his side over the line.

Brooks finished the match with a superb 140 metres from 13 runs (the second most of any player in the team), while also chalking up a linebreak, a linebreak assist and two try-assists.

The halfback terrorised the Storm back three with his kicking game — chalking up 311 metres from 11 kicks — while also making 13 tackles, some of which were crucial ones on his line.

Coach Ivan Cleary was full of praise for Brooks following the match.

"Late in the game, Benji and Luke came up with some big plays," he said. "I thought Luke, in particular, played really well tonight. He looked dangerous every time he touched the ball."

Benji Marshall echoed the coach's praise of Brooks.

"He was a big reason why we got home tonight. I really thought Brooksy took control of the game for us," Marshall said. "When I felt a little bit off he really took over and sort of played the roll I have been playing for the last few weeks so, he was great."