Graphic: Alesich Design
GK: Nikola Roganovic (South Melbourne)
Picked by South as their best on ground and it’s hard to argue with that. In a similar trend to recent seasons, South have often turned to their custodian to bail them out, which, apart from the unstoppable Athiu strike, Roganovic played his part between the sticks once more.
RCB: Eli Luttmer (Bulleen Lions)
Not a bad effort to be at the heart of defence and keep a clean sheet away to the North Geelong Warriors. But that’s what Luttmer contributed to by nullifying the hosts’ forwards including making one crucial goal-line clearance.
CB: Luke Byles (Heidelberg United)
A symbol of reliance and protection at the back, Byles had Lujic’s measure and cleaned up what came his way with assurance and poise. A leader’s effort.
LCB: Faisal Sakhizada (Kingston City)
As one of the more experienced heads in the Kingston lineup with top-flight experience, Sakhizada drew upon all that experience to help his side claim an invaluable win and clean sheet on the road to the Melbourne Knights, also helping his side rectify the defensive issues of previous weeks.
RCM: Chris Irwin (Kingston City)
Looks to have benefited from being a first-choice in Nick Tolios’ side since his move from South. Dynamic and energetic in midfield, Irwin’s passing and presence around the ground was a great benefit to his side’s win over Knights.
CM: Tyson Holmes (Bentleigh Greens)
Two assists from were the tangible rewards for Holmes’ effort around the park all day, with the midfielder’s efforts helping Bentleigh Greens to a come-from-behind victory against Hume City.
LCM: David Cardamone (Bulleen Lions)
One of the more experienced players in a youthful Bulleen lineup, Cardamone helped control the midfield against North Geelong and scored the opener on his side’s route to victory.
AM: Nick Krousoratis (Green Gully)
Made a big impact on his time on the pitch with a goal and assist. Provided solid service for Dekker and Caniglia. Continues to grow into this season after an injury interrupted 2016.
RW: Davey van ‘t Schip (Pascoe Vale)
Certainly one of the standout players of the round, van ‘t Schip’s two goals were the classy, the second especially being a spectacular effort as his side went on to defeat St Albans 3-1.
ST: Kenny Athiu (Heidelberg United)
Caused South trouble throughout the 90 and his trademark moment came with a powerful strike later on in the contest to win the derby for Heidelberg United. Derby win aside, it was also an important goal and three points for the goal-shy Bergers so far this term.
LW: Alex Caniglia (Green Gully)
The winger’s stocks continue to rise again in the NPL with his season at new club Green Gully consistently producing the goods. On the scoresheet again as his side notched up a second consecutive victory.
Bench:
John Honos (Oakleigh Cannons)
There were times when Avondale were looking to get on top of the Cannons but Honos’ good work prevented that, frustrating the likes of Carley and Sheppard with his saves. Only conceded from the penalty spot.
Ramazan Tavsancioglu (Avondale FC)
Continues to be one of his side’s best and has been Avondale’s key signings in defence. Was once again solid as a rock in the backline despite Avondale finally conceding a goal but cut out most of Oakleigh’s opportunities.
Mouad Zwed (Kingston City)
A busy night for the winger who again was at it in creating opportunities for Kingston City. Hit the woodwork with one chance and won the penalty which Mitrovic converted.
Jack Petrie (Heidelberg United)
An absolute engine in the middle of the park for Heidelberg, his effort and application to win the ball and stop South wrestling any ascendancy went a long way in Heidelberg’s derby win.
James McGarry (Hume City)
A big performer in Hume’s midfield, McGarry was one of his side’s busiest and marked his day with a well-taken goal. Has been an important acquisition from the Knights.
Luke Gallo (Bulleen Lions)
Applied himself with distinction on the left flank, showed great work ethic in working for his side to try create goalscoring chances.