Queensland legend Petero Civoniceva says James Fisher-Harris poised to be an 'all-time legend'
Queensland legend Petero Civoniceva believes all the great front-rowers down the years owe James Fisher-Harris a vote of thanks after the Panthers juggernaut's Golden Boot win.
Fisher-Harris became the first prop to win the prize since it began 40 years ago and his crowning gave Civoniceva massive satisfaction.
The award traditionally goes to crafty halfbacks or speedy fullbacks - but Fisher-Harris broke new ground and struck a blow for the big men in the middle whose hard work often goes unnoticed.
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"We all owe him one - it's great recognition for James but also front-rowers in general," the former Broncos and Panthers star said.
"I'm sure guys like Shane Webcke, Paul Harragon and Glenn Lazarus feel the same - his award gives us all a lot of satisfaction.
James Fisher-Harris in action for the Kiwis. Getty
"You look at Penrith and what he does there - Jarome Luai and Nathan Cleary are amazing players, but they couldn't do what they do without men like James getting the team on the front foot.
"He wins the battle in the trenches. He is a great leader and I love the way he plays - he's got that old school mentality.
"He is a confrontational prop in the mould of 'Chief' (Harragon) and Webcke."
Civoniceva believes Fisher-Harris could be remembered as one of the game's all-time greats if he maintains his form in coming seasons.
"The Golden Boot was just rewards for a guy who does a lot of work in the middle," he said.
"He's right up there with the best in the modern era right now - but if he continues in the same vein he will go down as an all-time legend."
