St. Helens winger Tommy Makinson celebrated 10 years at the club this weekend with his testimonial match against Super League newcomers Leigh Centurians.
Makinson, who made his debut for St. Helens in 2011 against Salford Red Devils, has made an impressive 244 career appearances for the Saints scoring 138 tries and accumulating over 800 points.
Makinson’s testimonial ended in a narrow 24-25 defeat in the Saints first pre-season outing with him scoring two tries.
The Red Vee will be hoping for much better results throughout Makinson’s testimonial year of 2021.
In his 10 years at St. Helens, Makinson has cemented his name as a club icon by lifting the Betfred Super League three times, in 2014, 2019 and most recently 2020.
It was the closing moments of last season’s grand final which etched Makinson in St. Helens folklore.
His last-minute drop goal attempt hit the post before rookie Jack Welsby touched down the winning try to secure the title for the Red Vee.
The winger made a name for himself in his debut season for the club, scoring 11 tries and starting in the 2011 Grand Final against Leeds Rhinos.
However, it was the 2014 season which will forever stand out for Makinson himself and Saints fans.
He scored 29 tries in a season which saw St. Helens crowned champions as Makinson picked up his first piece of silverware.
Makinson burst onto the international scene in 2018, after scoring a hat-trick of tries at Anfield against New Zealand.
He was named the man of the series in the end of season test matches with the All Blacks, earing him the acclaimed golden boot award as the International player of the year.
Speaking on Twitter after Saturdays testimonial, Makinson said: “Overwhelmed with everyone’s support, thanks so much to everyone who tuned in tonight.”
Overwhelmed with everyone's support. Thanks so much to everyone who tuned in tonight ❤ massive thanks to @TheRFL ourleague who made all the streaming possible and ran so smooth. @LeighCenturions who without them i wouldn't have a game 🙌🙌 so many sponsors who are supporting…
— Tommy Makinson testimonial 2021 (@TommyMak21) March 13, 2021
No matter how the rest of his career plays out, Tommy Makinson has already sealed his place in the hearts of the St. Helens faithful and will hope to make many more memories at the Totally Wicked stadium.
Featured Image: Gerard Barrau – Wiki Commons
