By Michael Madyira
Orlando Pirates attacker Patrick Maswanganyi has presented himself as a strong contender for the PSL Footballer of the Season award.
Mamelodi Sundowns players Themba Zwane, Peter Shalulile (twice) and Teboho Mokoena have claimed the prize for the past four seasons.
But this term, Maswanganyi has emerged as a serious challenger after racking up seven PSL Man of the Match accolades in a season in which he has managed five league goals and as many assists.
His coach, Jose Riveiro, naturally backs him to bag the ultimate award.
“In the end, the team must be getting good results and performances; within that, the individuals can shine. Maswanganyi is a clear candidate, but let’s see,” the Spaniard told the media.
Maswanganyi is in his debut season with Pirates after joining the Buccaneers from SuperSport United before the start of the campaign.
But Sundowns players also want this award, and Sundowns coach Rhulani Mokwena says Ronwen Williams deserves it more than anyone else.
The Masandawana coach mentions Mokoena, Marcelo Allende and Lucas Ribeiro as outside rankers.
“I honestly think, as I said before, it’s Ronwen Williams [who deserves it],” Mokwena told the media about the Bafana Bafana captain, who has kept 14 clean sheets in 19 league appearances.
“But Lucas Ribeiro, Marcelo Allende and Teboho Mokoena are also challengers.”
The Brazilian’s tactician plays down Maswanganyi, saying the Pirates star has yet to reach the level of his players.
“You have to commend the contribution of Maswanganyi and maybe [Stellenbosch star Jayden] Adams,” said Mokwena.
“But the reality is that the level of Ronza, the level of Tebza, the level of Allende… and the level of Lucas Ribeiro for me is top-class. They’ve been outstanding this season.”
If Williams wins, he will be the third goalkeeper to win the Footballer of the Season award during the PSL era, after Andre Arendse (2000-01) and Iumeleng Khune, who was honoured at the end of the 2012-13 season.
Pictured above: Orlando Pirates winger Patrick Maswanganyi is challenged by Somila Ntsundwana of Richards Bay.
Image source: Orlando Pirates
