By The Numbers: PSL Player Of The Season

The 2023/24 DSTV Premiership season came to an exhilarating finish last weekend with lots still to play for, particularly in terms of continental football order, MTN 8, and relegation play-offs. This left football fans buzzing with excitement and anticipation until the very end. Whilst the champions Mamelodi Sundowns were never going to be caught, this season still brought along plenty of skill, drama, and sheer determination as we saw teams fight it out across the division. 

Player Of The Season

As the dust settles, attention now turns to the prestigious Footballer of the Season award, a recognition bestowed upon the most outstanding performer of the league. Among the top contenders for this coveted title are Iqraam Rayners (Stellenbosch FC), and the dynamic duo from Mamelodi Sundowns – Teboho Mokoena and Ronwen Williams. Each of these players has demonstrated exceptional prowess on the field, contributing significantly to their respective teams’ successes. Let’s delve into what makes each nominee deserving of this accolade.

Iqraam Rayners (Stellenbosch FC)

Iqraam Rayners has been a beacon of hope and resilience for Stellenbosch FC throughout the season. The versatile forward featured in 27 league matches, playing 2,297 minutes of football and was instrumental in his team’s attack, as they finished third on the log behind Sundowns and Orlando Pirates. Rayners’ ability to find the back of the net with precision and consistency has made him one of the most feared strikers in the league. His highlight of the season will no doubt be his 5-goal haul against Polokwane City at the end of April 2024. His agility and quick decision-making on the field have left defenders scrambling and goalkeepers guessing. With a remarkable tally of goals (4th highest goals per 90 minutes) and assists, (5th highest G&A per 90 minutes) Rayners has not only been a prolific scorer but also a vital playmaker for Stellenbosch FC.  The 27-year-old leads the league for shots taken, shots on target, and touches in the opposition box. But his creativity is highlighted by him being third in the league for chances created for open play.

Teboho Mokoena (Mamelodi Sundowns)

Whilst playing only 17 league matches (1,209 minutes), Mokoena has been the heartbeat of Mamelodi Sundowns’ midfield, orchestrating play in the middle of the park for the newly crowned league champions. In particular, he featured in nine of their opening 10 league games – the period when they effectively won the title. Known for his exceptional ball control, vision, and passing accuracy, Mokoena has been a central figure in Sundowns’ dominance this season. His ability to transition play from defense to attack seamlessly has been pivotal in his team’s strategy. Mokoena’s intelligence on the ball and his ability to read the game has allowed him to dictate the tempo of matches, making him a vital asset in both offence and defence. His touch map shows how he has been omnipresent in the Sundowns setup. He leads the league for passes attempted per 90 minutes, as well as passes completed per 90.

Ronwen Williams (Mamelodi Sundowns)

The Bafana Bafana and Mamelodi Sundowns number one has had an outstanding season, cementing his reputation as one of the best shot-stoppers in the league and on the continent. Williams’ reflexes, command of the penalty area, and exceptional shot-stopping abilities (a PSL record 11 goals conceded all season) have been on full display throughout the season. Williams also possesses critical leadership qualities that extend well beyond his goalkeeping duties; his vocal presence on the field and ability to organize the defense have been key factors in Sundowns’ solid defensive record. It’s crazy to consider that he is 30th in the league for passes completed, and he is a goalkeeper. Williams’ string defence meant he didn’t face many shots (he is 15th for shots faced). But when called upon he was up to task, with a save percentage of 83% (joint-third in the league).

Patrick Maswanganyi

A special mention for Patrick Maswanganyi, who was nominated for the Players Player of the Year award. Only one player has created more chances from open play than him this season (41). In addition, he is the only player with more than 600 successful passes in the opposition half (621), and more than 300 successful passes ending in the opposition final third (359).

Conclusion

Each player nominated has brought something unique to the league, whether it be Rayners’ clinical finishing, Mokoena’s midfield mastery, or Williams’ goalkeeping heroics. Their contributions have not only been instrumental to their teams but have also enriched the league with moments of brilliance. As we await the announcement of the Footballer of the Season, these three contenders have undoubtedly left a mark on the 2023/24 season.