Not only has he capped a stellar return by taking out the Jim Quinn Medal on Tuesday but is a win away from another grand final.

Standing in his way is a Coolamon outfit Wagga Tigers have beaten in both of their clashes so far this season.

Tigers took a 33-point win at Kindra Oval in their first meeting before a 36-point victory at Robertson Oval, however it was the Hoppers who finished with the minor premiership.

Manton is wary of the threat they pose.

"We have beaten them twice but they obviously finished on top of the ladder and are a great side," Manton said.

"They have some scary good players on their team and if any one of them gets off the chain then it is trouble for us.

"I'm still confident in the talent our team has that we can put in a good performance."

After claiming a three-point win over Coolamon young gun Luke Redfern in the vote count, Manton revealed he almost didn't lace up the boots this season.

However he signed on just days out from the start of the Riverina League season and has had another big impact for the club.

"I really considered not playing as footy seasons do grind you down some times but I'm really glad I pulled the pin and called up Tigers and said if you've got space I'll come down," he said.

It's meant plenty of time on the road but it is something the 25-year-old has become accustomed to.

"I've found a way to enjoy it as I have to do it," he said.

"There is no getting out of it and I love a podcast.

"I just plug those in and forget about driving for a bit."

Manton has been used in a different role this season, finding a much more permanent role in the forward line.

However it has been a challenge he's enjoyed.

"One of the areas our team kinda has a space in position wise is a key forward so we all have to fill in at different times," Manton said.

"I've been filling in more than I'm used to for sure but I'm enjoying the forward line.

"We have so many good midfielders and if I'm enjoying the forward line I might as well stay forward."

Following their 2016 premiership success Manton went back to Western Australia to finish his sports science degree but has been on the move since as he works out what his future holds.

He's yet to commit to another season with the club.

After sharing the Alberton League when playing with Toora last year, Manton added another crown but admitted it was hard to take considering the talent in the league.

"I was happy with my effort, I'm always critical of myself on my effort, and I was happy with my effort for most of the year," he said.

"I think I had an ok season but I still think I have plenty to learn and get better at."

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