Only Benji Marshall can make a mistake look that good.

As his side looked to take advantage of some good early field position in Friday night's qualifying final against St George Illawarra, the Wests Tigers maestro produced what for all intents and purposes could only be described as an airswing.

An embarrassing gaffe for a park footballer let alone one of the best players in the world.

But what Marshall made of the error showcased just why he is held in such high esteem.

The classy pivot managed to get some of his boot to the ball.

So little was the contact that it was a surprise the Nine Network didn't call on 'Snicko' or 'Hotspot' to verify the result.

But it was a touch just the same.

The ball hit the dirt, bounced off an opponent and Marshall regathered.

It appeared to be a knock on and everyone stopped - everyone except Marshall that is.

He sensed a stagnate defence and he exploded.

There was still Darius Boyd to overcome in defence but it was a more customary type of Marshall brilliance that proved too much for the Dragons fullback, a massive left foot step leaving Boyd grasping at thin air and the Tigers with an early 4-0 lead courtesy of their inspirational playmaker.

It may not have been to script but, as he has proved time and again, Marshall rarely operates by conventional methods.

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