Laffor Wins PSL award

It’s down to the wire. There’s just one game left before the Absa Premiership draws to an end and what an awesome season this has been.

Judges had the daunting task in selecting the Absa Premiership Player and Coach of the Month. Unlike previous awards, this time round performances for the months of March and April were scrutinised.

After much debate and deliberation it was a tight contest between Anthony Laffor from SuperSport United and Lucas Thwala from Orlando Pirates. The judges commented on the fact that rarely do defenders get the credit for all their hard work but Thwala raised his hand at every opportunity and played a crucial role in Pirates’ wins during March and April. It was also noted that Thwala has the right attitude and is a consistent performer for the Buccaneers. But it was Laffor’s unforgettable hat-trick against Sundowns, and his prowess in front of goals, having scored five goals in five games that earned him Absa Premiership Player of the Month for March/April.

On the coaching front, it was a toss up between February’s winner Clive Barker from AmaZulu and Orlando Pirates’ coach Ruud Krol. Barker proved that there is no jinx in winning the Absa Premiership Coach of the Month, as he kept his boys on a winning streak during the months of March and April after winning the award in February. In the end, the judges could not ignore the way in which Krol tactfully blended youth and experience that resulted in some exhilarating moments on the pitch.

Steward Masela, Absa Sponsorship Consultant said: “Congratulations to Anthony Laffor and Ruud Krol for winning the Absa Premiership Player and Coach of the Month for March/April respectively. We would also like to acknowledge and extend our gratitude to the panel of judges whose commitment and lively exchange in deciding the winners each month has made this an exciting experience for all – the players, coaches and of course the fans.”

Premier Soccer League CEO, Kjetil Siem, could not contain his elation: “This has been a season second to none. The professionalism, commitment and dedication from the teams and players is definitely commendable, especially in the last few games. There were many enthralling, unforgettable tackles and goals.

“If this season is anything to go by, there’s no doubt that the Absa Premiership will grow to greater and better heights next season,” Siem added.