This time round, we have the bustling hard-nuts that often put their team and the result ahead of their own physical wellbeing. Of course, we’re talking about the centre-half, the lads who take to the field shouldered with the job of helping keep the ball out of the net. They are for the most part an eclectic mix of brute strength, defensive nous, leadership ability and organisational skills. Some are elegant ball players, others look to relieve the pressure by adopting a safety first approach, but as long as the ball stays out of the net, they’re doing their job. These are some of the best of 2016, and you can vote below for your favourite via the polls below and also using the hashtag #NPLTOTS.
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Luke Adams (South Melbourne)
The NPL champion’s form throughout the campaign earned him a maiden New Zealand cap and goal which should bode well for his professional future. Despite missing some games as a consequence, he played a key role in South’s title-winning run despite his relatively young age.
Luke Byles (Heidelberg United)
The experienced campaigner put in another season of uncompromising strength and organisation in defence. The Englishman hardly put a foot wrong in 2016 as he led the side at the back alongside Steven Pace.
Daniel Jones (Green Gully)
Alongside Roddy Vargas, the Englishman (experienced and Englishman part seems to be a common theme throughout this list) provided the oldest pair of starting centre-backs in the league. Leading his side with distinction, Jones helped his side, including Rani Dowisha, see very little action at the back many games.
Steven Pace (Heidelberg United)
The former Victory man formed the second half of the central duo with Byles and used all his experience and nous to be the ideal partner in defence. Showed his ability to pop up for a few goals as well. Continues to be one of the best in the business in Victoria.
Steve Pantelidis (Oakleigh Cannons)
(Feature Image)
Another former Victory defender, the centre-back had praise heaped on him by coach Peter Tsolakis for his professionalism and setting an example for the rest of the team and it showed – his presence helped solidify the Cannons at the back in their surprise run to the grand final, and he especially worked well alongside Adrian Chiapetta towards the end of the campaign.
Jack Webster (Bentleigh Greens)
Webster has been compared to former Brisbane Roar captain Matt Smith previously in that Webster has all the hallmarks of being capable of making the grade in the A-League – and beyond – from a similar career trajectory. Still only in his mid-20s, he was a constant star for his backline, including scoring a few crucial goals throughout the campaign.
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Honorable mentions: Roddy Vargas, Felix Rosman, Adam Nakic, Ross Archibald, Ramazan Tavsancioglu, Bryan Bran