The hooker returned home to plenty of expectations this season but was forced to the sidelines for the majority of it

However the 26-year-old exceeded expectations in the biggest game of the year, scoring three tries as the Blues stormed past Southcity to take a 28-4 victory.

The deserved John Hill Medal winner was just thrilled to be part of a Blues premiership.

"It's unreal," Bristow said.

"It's something I dreamed of as a young kid and never really thought it would happen but now that it is here I'm lost for words."

Not even in his wildest dreams did he think he'd score three tries in the process.

Capitalising on some strong work from the Blues forward pack, and Zac Masters in particular, Bristow scored both of his teams tries in the first half to see them out to a 12-4 advantage.

He then sealed the victory with his hat-trick, darting out from dummy half and forcing his way over for what was the last try in the decider at Equex Centre on Sunday.

Bristow didn't want to take too much credit for the win.

"I don't know how that happened but honestly you can't single me out," he said.

"Our forwards get us on the front foot and it makes my job so much easier."

He particularly gave credit to front rowers Zac Masters and Jed Pearce.

However the medal marks off a remarkable comeback after requiring emergency surgery during the year.

Bristow returned early from a broken hand on the eve of the season for Tumut's round five clash with Cootamundra before lacerating his kidney losing to Gundagai a month later.

He missed the entire second half of the season before being cleared to return in time for finals.

The Blues went the hard way into the grand final, playing in each of the four weeks of the finals, but one advantage was the chance to get some more match fitness into their star hooker after he was unable to train due to the kidney problem.

Bristow thought his season was over, but he was determined to get back for the Blues.

"It's been a rough season and I think I only played about five regular season games but it makes it all worth it to win this," he said.

Even with the injury woes the 26-year-old said the year had been better than he imagined it would be.

After virtually retiring three years ago due to a back problem he credits the return home with the Blues for reigniting his passion for the game.

"It's given me a new life in rugby league to be at home playing with a bunch of locals and they way the whole town has got around us is the best feeling," Bristow said.

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