The RFL

Bradford Bulls boss Steve McNamara has been named the engage Coach of the month for June, whilst the player’s award went to St Helens star Jon Wilkin (pictured).

McNamara guided the Bulls to wins over Hull FC, Catalans Dragons and Leeds Rhinos away, as well as Huddersfield Giants in the Cup, during an impressive month.

"June was a decent month for us and the players put in some good performances," said McNamara.

"Obviously, it is nice to win the award. A coach is only as good as how well the team is performing, and it’s the players that have gone out there and put themselves on the line every single week."

Wilkin’s impressive performances for the Saints saw him play a vital part in the champions’ four straight wins during June. The month saw the Saints narrowly beat Salford City Reds and then run up the points against Hull Kingston Rovers and the Giants.

The Saints also progressed to the semi-finals of the Carnegie Challenge Cup following a convincing victory over Warrington Wolves.

"I’m quite shocked that I’ve won it," admitted Wilkin. "There are a lot of players I would probably think deserved it before me, but it’s a great honour to be the Super League player of the month"

"This season I have come to understand what my strengths are, and come to understand more what people expect of me, so it’s been a really enjoyable time for me."

The monthly award winners are voted by members of the rugby league media and were announced at the weekend on the BBC’s "Super League Show".

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