Dave Craven: Moon has eclipsed rivals to prove the best value signing

That may appear slightly derogatory but it’s not meant to.

I am not for one minute suggesting they do not warrant their pay packet any other time of the season especially when you consider an average Super League player takes home the same in a year what Wayne Rooney roughly pockets in a day.

But what I am getting at is this is the opportunity for all of those at each of the eight clubs involved to make a truly lasting impression; the business end is upon us, the time to take that silverware and all the accompanying glory.

Whatever the pros and cons of a play-offs system, be it eight teams, six or five, second chances, potential champions from the bottom half of the table, ClubCall or simply call the men in white coats, it is here to stay and a chance for players to illustrate just what they are capable of.

That is because, let’s face it, they need to be able to produce in the pressure situations.

It is okay running in four tries at home to London on a balmy July evening. Can that be replicated away at a packed Headingley with Grand Final specialists Leeds stood in front of you?

All of which, though, got me thinking who has been the best value signing of 2013.

Of the two big moves, Gareth Hock’s much-hyped season-long loan to Widnes only saw the volatile England second-row fitfully perform while his international colleague, Gareth Ellis, has undoubtedly brought plenty to Hull FC when fit but has, unfortunately, been frustrated by injuries.

Hopefully, he can put that right on his return tonight when the Black and Whites so badly need his leadership to navigate a tricky opening play-off with Catalan.

Another KC arrival, Daniel Holdsworth, has shown glimpses of what he can achieve not least in their run to Wembley when the stand-off was so pivotal but he has not delivered the attacking consistency Peter Gentle’s side have been crying out for.

Hull KR’s recruitment of Travis Burns has proved worthwhile and when he has kept his composure he has been a welcome addition to Super League. But, typically, the Australian stand-off is absent from their play-off campaign after unfortunately breaking his arm.

The man he replaced at Craven Park – Blake Green – has proven an instant hit at Wigan while not delivering the sort of panache those fans have grown used to in their No6s in the shape of Trent Barrett and Henry Paul.

In St Helens colours, Willie Manu has yet to regularly replicate the marauding brilliance that won him fame at Hull FC but Rovers will be concerned that might change when they meet tomorrow as the Tongan second-row has improved as this campaign has gone on.

Saints’ best performer has been Alex Walmsley, the young prop from Batley Bulldogs who could rightly challenge as being the finest bit of business.

It will be fascinating to see if the giant front-row can fire up their Old Trafford challenge, too.

Another prop who has impressed is Craig Kopczak, whose controversial signing from Bradford Bulls may have brought Huddersfield Giants unwanted headlines but has also instantly provided the added steel that coach Paul Anderson so desired.

Then, of course, there is the ever-watchable Justin Carney, whose blood-and-thunder performances on the wing for Castleford, where he has terrorised so many opponents, have drawn comparisons with the legendary Lesley Vainikolo.

But, for me, the most astute piece of business has been that of Joel Moon at Leeds from Salford City Reds.

The champions’ long search for Keith Senior’s replacement at left centre is over. Moon has effortlessly slipped into their way of playing and brought yet more class and firepower to their side.

It would be no surprise if the silky Australian proves the star of the play-offs ahead.

As for 2014 recruitment, all eyes will undoubtedly be on his former club and a certain Dr Marwan...