The wait to find out who is the MGBSFL Footballer of the Year ends on Monday night at the league's end-of-season awards.
Norstar London Raiders A and Hendon United Sports are expected to scoop the top honours following successful seasons in the league and cup competitions. Raiders lifted the Premier Division title and Cyril Anekstein Cup for the first time, while Hendon retained the Peter Morrison Trophy.
There have been some standout performers in both camps, with the likes of Justin Spiro, Matt Stock and Liron Mannie of Raiders, and Avi Korman, David Seitler and Dovi Fehler leading contenders for the top awards.
It's been refreshing to see some new names grab the headlines this season, with former Wingate & Finchley starlet Mannie one of the signings of the season. When it comes to the top divisional awards, the strikers normally lead the way, but the battle for the Safe Hands award, my favourite accolade, looks a close contest with Jake Doffman, Russell Corin and David Grossman all being strong candidates.
The evening often throws up one or two surprises but I can only see NLR's Rob Richman collecting the top manager prize following a season of unprecedented success.
● Now seems as good a time as any for Tal Ben Haim to return to Ligat Ha'Al. With Pako Ayesteran departing, an important summer lies ahead for the club, which will be competing in the Champions League next season. Tal did a sterling job at Charlton and will no doubt have a crucial role to play in Israel's Euro 2016 run-in.
● New friendships have been formed following London Pumas's successful trip to Israel. While the action was bruising on the pitch, it was hugs and handshakes at the final whistle in what is a fast-growing sport, both here and in Israel. Women's rugby may not be on the Maccabiah Games radar just yet, but it's more than just a pipe dream.
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