While technically the opening five rounds would constitute two months, the late start in February combined with the break for the FFA Cup means there’s been around a month’s worth of fixtures spread over that time period. So in saying that, we’re incorporating Round’s One through to Five into a bumper Player of the Month for March.
The selection will comprise of both the public’s vote as well as both our and the FFV match reporters’ opinions, so get voting and sharing to ensure the player you think has stood out amongst the rest is recognised.
NPL Victoria
Nick Epifano (South Melbourne)
Leads the competition in goals for 2016, and would be right up there with assists as well, Nick Epifano has enjoyed a solid start to the NPL Victoria season to date. His highlight performance was an opening round hat-trick against Heidelberg United, while he helped steal a point against Bulleen Lions with an assist for Milos Lujic. Team of the Week: Round 1
Daniel Jones (Green Gully)
The veteran defender has been a rock for Arthur Papas’ men, and has been one of the standout defenders in the league so far this season. Three clean sheets in the last three games – and seven points to boot – have had a lot to do with the contribution of the uncompromising Englishman, who hasn’t conceded in over 300 minutes of league action. Other strong defensive performers include Luke Byles (Heidelberg United), Jacob Eliopoulos (Port Melbourne) and Michael Eagar (South Melbourne). Team of the Week: Round 3 & 4
Sami Nour (Bulleen Lions)
The fleet-footed youngster has lit up the Veneto Club in the NPL Victoria for Bulleen Lions, with a number of exciting displays in the opening five rounds. He has appeared in more Teams of the Week than any other player in 2016 so far, reflective of his strong form in the top-flight, which has seen him grab two goals and headaches for multiple defenders in the league. Team of the Week: Round 1, 2 & 4
Troy Ruthven (Bentleigh Greens)
Don’t let his surfer hair and calm demeanour off the pitch fool you, this lad is no chill on the pitch. Has covered nearly every blade of grass on the pitch so far this season and breaks up the play with absolute ease. Ruthven also recycles possession seamlessly and has a natural eye for goal, striking two absolute stunners to help his side triumph over Avondale FC. Team of the Week: Round 1 & 4
Marcus Schroen (South Melbourne)
The second South Melbourne representative in the reckoning, Schroen has been at his brilliant best since switching over from Hume City. He has provided drive from behind the strikers and a tireless endeavour to push forward and create an opening. Has been one of South’s most consistent performers, putting in good shifts even when the team isn’t at its best. Beats out teammates Milos Lujic and Matthew Millar for a spot on the basis of his consistency. Team of the Week: Round 2
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NPL2
Velibor Mitrovic (Kingston City)
The attacking midfielder has found the back of the net five times in as many games for Kingston City and has been a major reason behind his side’s blistering start to the NPL2 East campaign, which has seen them go five games without dropping a point. The 24-year-old is playing with confidence bred from the good form of the teammates around him.
Atilla Ofli (Whittlesea Ranges)
Leads the NPL2 goal scoring charts on eight strikes from five games, the Whittlesea hitman has led his side up the league ladder in a surprisingly successful season so far. Without his impact, the Ranges would be six points worse off this season as his goals helped secure results against Werribee City and Springvale White Eagles.
Amir Osmancevic (Dandenong Thunder)
The inside forward has been destructive for Dandenong Thunder this season, grabbing four consecutive braces in the league before being rested in Thunder’s 4-2 win against Sunshine George Cross last weekend. Powerful, deceptively fast and good with the ball at feet, Osmancevic has shown his talents as a versatile and rounded forward, who is just as capable of burying chances as he is setting up opportunities for teammates.
Phil Petreski (Melbourne City)
The Melbourne City captain has shifted inboard from his usual home on the left flank – whether that be in defence or in midfield – and has shone in a central midfield role, setting up opportunities for his teammates as well as grabbing two league goals of his own. A trusty left peg and a workman both on and off the ball, Petreski’s experience comparative to his younger teammates has been vital for Joe Palatsides’ men.
Apai Ukuno (Moreland City)
The third of dominant strike trio currently tearing up the NPL2, Apai Ukuno’s form has seen him earn a call up to the South Sudanese national team, while grabbing seven goals from four matches. He’s been one of the most important figures for a Moreland City side that has struggled for consistency with a number of first team players missing, and his impact was most evident by the fact City weren’t able to find the back of the net in his absence against Brunswick City.
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