Steward Masela, Absa Sponsorship Consultant said: “Just because there were two outstanding players in the running this month, it didn't make the judging any easier. Both players have had an outstanding month and displayed spectacular skill.”
The two players in line for the Absa Premiership Player of the Month for January were Abia Nale (Kaizer Chiefs) and Sthembiso Ngcobo (Free State Stars).
The judges cited Abia Nale's seamless integration into the Kaizer Chiefs play and his three Man-of-the-Match performances in January as reasons for his nomination.
However, Sthembiso Ngcobo carries the Absa Premiership Player of the Month mantle. Ngcobo outplayed and outclassed his peers by scoring in every game during the month of January. The goal he scored against Amazulu stands him in good stead for the Absolutely Awesome Goal of the Season.
In the Absa Premiership Coach of the Month stakes the Free State Stars joint coaches Themba Sithole and Steve Khompela were recognised for their role in moving the team away from the relegation zone. Orlando Pirates' Rudi Krol and Moroka Swallows' Julio Leal were also mentioned for their team's improved performance. However, Kaizer Chiefs' Muhsin Ertugral walked away with the honours for Chiefs' unbeaten run in January (3 wins and a draw).
The judges were unanimous in their decision and pointed out Ertugral's excellent run in moving Chiefs steadily up the log. In addition, he also effortlessly integrated new players in the team (Abia Nale nominated for player of the month and Wayne Matle - Young Player of the Month), and got the Amakhosi “to play like the Chiefs we all know”, remarked one of the judges.
Premier Soccer League CEO, Kjetil Siem, also joined in the celebrations.
“I'm glad to see that the winners are coming from different teams every month as it shows every player and coach is really striving out there to be the best,” commented Siem.
