Online Reporter
THE 2021/2022 Castle Lager Premier Soccer League (PSL)’s best player will pocket US$7 500, the league announced on Wednesday.
According to a message circulated by the PSL on various social media platforms, the runner-up will get US$4 500, with the second runner-up walking way with US$3 750.
The eight finalists will receive US$1 200 each, while the Golden Boot award carries a US$6 375 cheque.
CAPS United’s William Manondo leads the goal-scoring charts with 15 goals, three ahead of FC Platinum’s Walter Musona going into the last three games of the season.
Musona, whose goals helped FC Platinum to their fourth straight league title last weekend, is also among the favourites for the Soccer Star of the Year award.
His teammates – Gift Bello, box-to-box midfielder Brian Banda and goalkeeper Wallace Magalane – are also in with a chance.
Dynamos’ Frank Makarati, and Highlanders’ Divine Mhindirira also had decent seasons.
It will not be surprising if one of them is selected as the league’s best player.
There are a host of players eying a place on the calendar, including Dynamos goalkeeper Taimon Mvula, Prince Chama of Herentals and Godfrey Makaruse of Highlanders.
Emmanuel Paga (Dynamos), Mtokhozisi Msebe (Bulawayo Chiefs), Eli Ilunga (Black Rhinos), Donald Ngoma (Triangle) and Nelson Chadya of Ngezi Platinum Stars also stand a strong chance of claiming the coveted prize.
Lennox Mucheto of Yadah, the Manica Diamonds duo of Lloyd Katongomara and Talent Chamboko, and Nqobizitha Masuku of Highlanders are similarly in with a chance.
There could also be places on the calendar for the Chicken Inn duo of strikers Brian Muza and Bret Amidu.
Despite his team’s relegation, WhaWha’s Calum English-Brown had a good showing, alongside teammate Jayden Barake.
They are in the run for the Rookie of the Year award.