OUR GAME Player of the Year
Another rollercoaster season still needs to be settled – but the National Game Awards doesn’t necessarily wait for the trophies to be lifted before honouring its winners.
Indeed, we’re already putting our plans in place for the big day at AFC Wimbledon’s Plough Lane stadium on Tuesday May 23 and it’s our job is to give you everything you need to know before you cast your votes.
This week, we bring a run-down of the Our Game Football Player of the Year – an award which covers every player numbered two and above from the National League and the National League North and South.
Once again this year, there’s plenty to choose from – and we certainly don’t envy you decision-makers when it comes to picking the right man.
Rightly or wrongly, when picking any Player of the Year, the mind naturally often drifts towards the top of the scoring charts with the golden boys setting the tone for another thrilling season at Steps 1 and 2.
So, look no further than Notts County’s Macaulay Langstaff. Brought in from newly-promoted Gateshead to cover the loss of Kyle Wootton, the 26-year-old has proved a revelation at Meadow Lane – and is set to break numerous records along the way.
His 40th league goal of the season at Altrincham on Tuesday night not only broke a club record but also drew him level with Ricky Miller as a National League best.
In this memorable two-horse race for the National League title this season, both Wrexham and Notts County boast numerous candidates to claim our top award this season.
Langstaff may have to compete against the likes of teammates Kyle Cameron, Adam Chicksen and Ruben Rodrigues for the top honour, while the Racecourse also houses a number of contenders, notably Paul Mullin, scorer of 31 goals himself so far this season, or Aaron Hayden, who has netted 12 times from centre-back. Captain Ben Tozer, too, has been a colossus for the Dragons.
Away from the top two, Woking have enjoyed a storming season – boosted by the goals of Rhys Browne, who also wowed at Wealdstone – but, come on, Chesterfield and Barnet fans, who has stood out for you this season?
Elsewhere, how about the likes of Dominic Poleon, scorer of 31 goals form National League South champions elect Ebbsfleet United or Nick Haughton, who has led AFC Fylde‘s charge towards the North title.
The choice, as always, is yours, so get your votes in and give your club’s star man the recognition he deserves.
