ALBURY-Wodonga Steamers flanker Liam Krautz's pain of missing the SIRU grand final has been eased by him winning the competition's Bill Castle Medal.
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Krautz edged out Steamers teammate Sam Allen by one vote.
The 29-year-old was awarded three votes despite losing to Waratahs in the final round to overtake the speedster, who was the competition's leading try-scorer.
"It's a bit sad not being in the grand final and winning the award, it would have been a lot better, but next year is a different story," Krautz said.
"The award speaks as a testament to the team.
"Although it highlights the individual I couldn't have done it without the 14 other lads who took the field."
It adds to the Rivcoll Olds Boys Medal he won in Albury's 2013 premiership success.
