Tongue’s input not a talking point for Raiders

Canberra Raiders captain Alan Tongue was handed the challenge of leading an NRL side who many tipped to be in the running for the wooden spoon. 25 weeks later and Tongue is now leading seventeen of the most unheralded bunch of footballers into the finals.

The Raiders are on the cusp of securing a top eight birth when they face the Canterbury Bulldogs on Sunday afternoon at Canberra stadium.

It is a game that many predict Canberra will win by miles, despite being stripped to the bones when it comes to their available player roster.

But despite all the challenges, setbacks and new successes, Tongue has remained composed, and only now is he really starting to get the recognition he deserves.

The Tamworth born lock made his debut for the Raiders in 2000, winning the rookie of the year award at the club.

Although not as naturally gifted as Benji Marshall, Frank Pritchard or Anthony Tupou, Tongue stands alone, with perhaps Danny Buderus, as the NRL’s most courageous and passionate player.

In 2006, Tongue broke the record for most tackles in a regular season with 1,087. The next highest ranking player was Nathan Hindmarsh with 911.

But Tongue’s abilities go deeper than grabbing ankles.

Tongue is an integral part of a Raiders arsenal that has been unmatched in recent weeks. He is the perfect team player and has all the necessary skills that have seen him become a utility of the highest value.

At just 88 kilograms, Tongue plays well above his weight.

And as we head into finals football, either Manly, Melbourne or Cronulla will know just how much he means to the Canberra faithful.

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