FOR flying wingman Tommy Makinson scoring the clinching try of the Grand Final caps off an incredible year.

The winger – who turned 23 in the build-up to the final – has enjoyed a dream season which has seen him named in the Super League Dream Team and his athletic finishes become an early piece of Langree Park folklore.

But Makinson said he wasn't relaxed about the hooter until the final whistle.

“I didn't think we'd won it yet after the try, and was still panicking until 30 seconds to go. Wigan are a great side and with 12 men or even if they had nine or 10 men they could score from anywhere and wasn't celebrating until that final whistle went. It was such an exciting game for the neutral and our fans," he said.

And for Makinson the win was the perfect send-off for the players departing the club at the end of the season.

"We're such a tight bunch and it means the world, especially to send the players leaving back home with a win. Sia's been to three Grand Finals and Willie's not had a Grand Final in all his time here so to send them home with a gold ring just means everything," he said.

And Makinson says the triumph could be the catalyst for a bright future at the club.

“I can't predict the future, I'm not Mystic Meg but whoever the new coach is who comes in will do just what Nathan's done and build a great side. The future at Saints is special," Makinson said.