After playing in state leagues in Western Australia, South Australia and Canberra, Manton arrived at Robertson Oval this year as one of Shaun Campbell’s marquee recruits.

A weekly nine hour road trip from Kangaroo Valley and back was all worthwhile on Sunday as Manton delivered one of his best performances of the year to help Tigers over the line.

“It’s been worth it,” Manton said.

“It was all about doing it for the boys today. I’m stoked.

“It’s been an amazing year and I couldn’t do it with a better bunch of blokes. It’s my first grand final and first ever win so it’s real special.”

Manton works at a residential stay program in Kangaroo Valley which requires him to be home every Saturday night by 10pm.

It meant Manton literally played and then jumped straight in the car to return in time.

Manton admits it’s a ‘fair drive’ but said he has loved every minute at Tigers this year.

“It’s been a fair commitment but the club’s been amazing,” he said.

“I told them, look, this is what I can do and they were on board and helped me out the whole way.”