Cole named king of the MGBSFL

The left-back was voted as the stand-out performer in a season where Redbridge Jewish Care finished as runners-up in both the Premier Division and Cyril Anekstein Cup competitions.

Cole, 21, was regularly nominated by RJC boss Jon Jacobs for the JC Team of the Week and is the second player from the east London club to win the accolade, following in the footsteps of Daran Bern in season 2010/11.

Cole is the first defender to win the top player prize since Daniel Howard four years ago.

Known for his fierce tackling and deadball prowess, he was influential at both ends of the pitch.

"I'm delighted to receive this award," Cole told JC Sport. "For me personally, I thought I have had a really good season.

"I pushed myself hard in pre-season and have been enjoying playing football this season.

"I wouldn't of been able to win this award if it wasn't for my team-mates and management."

And he gave a warning to RJC's title rivals ahead of season 2017/18. "In regards to Redbridge, I'm still drowning my sorrows about how the season ended." It was a case of so near, yet so far as they were edged out by Oakwood in the league and Lions in the cup.

Cole commented: "We will come back stronger next year and bring the tittle back down to Essex, where it belongs."

The Young Player award was something of a surprise selection, going to Maccabiah-bound Avi Garson of Faithfold B.

Dan Kristall and Ric Blank were recognised as the top managers after guiding Oakwood A to the Premier crown.

There was more joy for Redbridge after B-team star Daniel Bean won the best player in Division One trophy, while Richard Bronzite won the Team Secretary award for the second time.

Newcomer Jordan Sharifian capped an outstanding first season with Temple Fortune with the acknowledgement of best player in Division Two.

MGBSFL ROLL OF HONOUR

PLAYER OF THE YEAR: Ryan Cole (Redbridge Jewish Care A)

YOUNG PLAYER OF THE YEAR: Avi Garson (Faithfold B)

MANAGERS OF THE YEAR: Dan Kristall and Ric Blank (Oakwood A)

-----------------------

DIVISIONAL PLAYER AWARDS

DIVISION ONE: Daniel Bean (Redbridge Jewish Care B)

DIVISION TWO: Jordan Sharifian (Temple Fortune)

INDIVIDUAL AWARDS

GOLDEN BOOT (Susan Lion Memorial award): Richard Fogelman (Faithfold B)

SAFE HANDS: James Harpin (Maccabi London Lions B)