Goalkeeper/Defender of Year – Blake Donald
With only 17 goals scored in 20 matches there were quite a few players that could have won this award, such was the quality of the defensive. But the player that stood tall week in week out with some brilliant saves to keep Power in countless games was the man between the stick, Blake Donald. With 150 odd saves during the season, Donald had another standout season with only incumbent national keeper, Kyle Wright coming close to his feats.
Midfielder of the Year – Manju Reddlapalli
Going into this campaign the midfield was seen as the weak link in the Power side. Their inability to keep position last season was seen as one of the major reasons for their poor performances. With the lost of international Andy Cloete many expected another poor season from their midfield. Overall the midfield still lacked stars but as unit they became one of best midfields in the league. Adapting to every combination the manager asked of them.
The key to the success of this midfield was Manju Reddlapalli. With the addition of James Griffen to the squad, Reddlapalli was allowed to move away from his attacking midfield role where he had little success last season. In a more roving role Reddlapallu found his game and goals to boot. With 40 odd key passes, three assists and five goals Manju lead the midfield with his all round ability. Occasionally he got back and defended as well.
Forward of Year – Thamba Mamesh
Season one goals were hard to come by for their Power attack, with Comley hitting more wood then a lumber jack and Mamesh missing more penalties then Mark Viduka. With other forwards in the league scoring goals for fun, it was frustrating season for two Power forward.
With 15 goals and 12 goals respectively, both their hard work in the off season paid off. Separating these two forward for the forward of year was a tough task, but with Mamesh’s ability to score goals during key stages of the season he just piped the ever improving Comley.
Clubmen of the Year – Heath Davis
Being one of the more active clubs in the league, this award was hard to decide. But the players that stood out in terms of off field activity (his one field activity were interesting as well) and team support was Heath Davis. A new member of club, being signed during the close season, it didn’t take long for Heath to be noticed in the Power dressing room with his antics.
Player of the season up next...