Cairns District Rugby League Gold Medal winner Brian Murgha has agreed to a train and trial contract with the Northern Pride for the 2013 season.

The Edmonton Storm and Cairns Marlins five-eighth has had an outstanding season this year, and took home the CDRL’s most prestigious individual honour at its annual awards ceremony on Frida night.

Pride Chief Executive Officer Chris Sheppard said Murgha fully deserved a chance to break into the Pride’s Intrust Super Cup squad.

“Brian’s had a fantastic season as captain of the Edmonton Storm, and also at representative level for the Cairns Marlins,” said Sheppard.

“He’s a natural leader, a very smart footballer who makes those around him better, and he’s someone who deserves a shot at a higher level.

“He also brings a bit of utility value being able to play 6, 7, 9 and 13 if required.

“He’s really keen to test himself at a higher level, have a good pre-season with the Pride and look to take his game to another level next year.”

Murgha pipped two-time champion Steve Singleton of Yarrabah by a point to win the CDRL Gold Medal with 18 votes, while Ivanhoes forward Tom Lynch finished third after polling 16.

Murgha's Gold Medal win would have helped ease the Storm's pain after their elimination from the title race at the hands of Innisfail the previous Sunday.