GK: Fraser Chalmers (Melbourne Knights)
Has not always been smooth sailing for Chalmers – much like the Knights as a whole – between the sticks in terms of suspensions etc. However, his performance against Hume was one of his most important, keeping City out at crucial times to ensure his side was able to win by the slimmest of margins.
RB: Josh Wilkins (Heidelberg United)
Like much of the Heidelberg backline, the side’s form has been in part due to a solid backbone. Wilkins has on numerous occasions been exceptionally solid at the back and was so again when facing off against Port. One clearance particularly stood out.
RCB: Darren Lewis (North Geelong Warriors)
Helped earn a first win and first clean sheet of the season. A huge effort by the defender to help shut out Pascoe Vale who, despite their recent form struggles, still possess a decent forward line.
CB: Adrian Chiappetta (Oakleigh Cannons)
Kingston haven’t been held scoreless at home yet this season but a combination of player unavailability and a solid Oakleigh backbone contributed to a 1-0 win on the road. Chiapetta was solid in the air and along the ground, cutting out threats regularly to restrict Kingston’s openings on goal.
LCB: Marco Jankovic (Bentleigh Greens)
A pivotal performance by Jankovic at left back but given Reuben Way also made a telling contribution we’ve included both. Netted his first goal for the club with a well-taken finish and was also part of the backline that shut Gully out and kept a clean sheet on the road.
LB: Reuben Way (Heidelberg United)
Has taken to the left-back role with aplomb in the injury absence of Les Doumbalis and made some crucial contributions for Heidelberg recently. It was his bursting run down the left and cross into the box which proved decisive for the winning goal.
CM: Kristian Trajceski (Avondale FC)
A constructive performance from the youngster to contribute to Avondale’s tight 1-0 victory over a plucky St Albans. His finishing touch may not always been there but helped all throughout midfield for his side to gain the ascendancy.
CM: Marijan Cvitkovic (Melbourne Knights)
Had a spot reserved for him as a super sub but given the significance of the result in the circumstances we’ll give a starting spot. Pouncing on a defensive error, the club veteran slotted the winner to give his side breathing space from the bottom after a tumultuous week.
RW: Matt Millar (South Melbourne)
A cumulative pick for a good run of form but also a constant dangerous presence, linking well with the front third too. Was gifted a goal but nonetheless buried it for his seventh of the campaign.
ST: Milos Lujic (South Melbourne)
Getting back to his predatory and menacing best (highlighted in the FFA Cup) in the box after a disjointed start to the season, Lujic has been creeping up the leaderboard for the golden boot and added another two, the first from a good Marcus Schroen cross and then also gifted a misplaced backpass.
LW: Andy Brennan (Bentleigh Greens)
Sliced open Gully’s defence with two assists, contributing to both goals on the day. His dribbling and delivery was difficult to contain, and a player of his quality continues to be a key player for Bentleigh in the front third.
Bench
John Honos (Oakleigh Cannons)
Didn’t necessarily have too many too many clutch saves to make, but has been in such good form that it didn’t look like he was going to concede any at all. Was confident at cleaning up anything that came his way and just his nous to slow down play and distribute well made subtle differences in the win.
Jordan Wilkes (Heidelberg United)
Deputised for the experienced campaigner Steven Pace against Port and was strong alongside Luke Byles and the rest of Heidelberg’s defence. Did the job as required and earned a clean sheet and win. Put his body on the line.
Milan Batur (Melbourne Knights)
A strong rearguard consisting of Batur was instrumental in keeping its shape and discipline to keep Hume’s chances to a minimum, with the backs against the wall performance duly rewarded with a priceless three points.
Michael Eagar (South Melbourne)
Five clean sheets in six games… it’s become a bit of a cliche to include one of South’s defenders in TOTW but it’s’ warranted as they keep getting the job done. Eagar again has been so composed and solid and the backline