Carl Allen scooped both the Players Player and the www.RocesterFC.com Player of the Season awards when Rocester Football Club held their annual presentation evening last Friday.

The popular defender missed just a handful of games during the season, and has been among the most consistent performers for the Romans throughout his three years with the club.

Speaking after receiving his trophies, Allen said; “I’m stunned, I honestly didn’t think I’d be in with a chance to get any awards let alone two, but it’s a great feeling.”

Nick Ward was equally as delighted when he picked up the Managers Player of the Season trophy, just reward for an outstanding season in midfield from where he also netted ten goals.

The Young Player of the Season honour went to 18-year old Rory Maxwell, who made an immediate impression in his first season and played in almost 40 matches.

There were also presentations made to top goalscorer Dave Shaw (12 goals) and Richard Owen, who was recognised for his commitment and loyalty to the club.

Chairman Dave Price, along with Joint Manager Damian Grocott, made speeches thanking everyone behind the scenes for their efforts throughout the season, with special mentions to former chairman Alf Hawksworth and president Peter Douglas, who played a big part in turning the club’s fortunes around during his six months at the helm.

Price also announced that the board and committee had unanimously agreed to ask long-serving secretary Gilbert Egerton to become president of the whole club, which also encompasses the Rocester Elkes Eagles juniors, and that Gilbert was delighted to accept the post.

Manager Steve Swanwick asked his departing assistant John Jackson to hand out the awards with him for the reserve team, who mirrored the first team’s 12th place finish in their Staffordshire Senior League campaign.

Matt Jackson received the Managers Player of the Season trophy, while Mark Dockerty took the Players Player honour.

The leading goalscorer trophy for the reserves went to 14-goal Ben Carr, and a commitment award was presented to striker Lee Poxon for his efforts.

Uttoxeter Post & Times