There are eight categories, seven bouquets and one brickbat so we will start with the  one negative

Worst performance of the season

There could have been plenty of nominations in this category as the start of the season was dire. A dull home draw with Falcons followed by defeat at Sixways and we were heading for a dark place. Worse was to come with a thumping by the Exiles at HC. However the most dire and frustrating performance with 53% of the vote was – Bourgoin (h)

Most influential newcomer

One of the features of the Back/Key management has been the quality of the recruits that they have brought into the club – Andy Titterell, Ceiron Thomas, Alfie To’oala to name but three. However the clear winner of this award, polling 75% of votes cast, might have also won the “highest flyer” award for his exploits in the lineout. Recognised nationally for his opta stats we voted overwhelmingly for  - Marco Wentzel.

Best performance

After some dismal stuff we started to put together some decent games and there were probably seven which could have been  in contention. The lads performed a notable double over Wasps but the game which caught the eye, polling 41% of the votes was the scintillating win at the Madejski Stadium – London Irish (a)

Best clubman

One of the best features of the team this season has been the spirit of togetherness shown by the entire squad. Whether it is supporting the A team, carrying water at games or ringing fans to get them to renew their season tickets the squad  could all be nominated. Alex Moreno and Andy Gomarsall both attracted votes but 49% went to veteran – Rob Rawlinson.

Try of the season

As we are not renowned  for being  prolific tryscorers every one that we do score qualifies, in my book, for this award.  However the one that caught the imagination of 61% of the voters  was the magnificent follow-up to Lee Blackett’s strategic kick – Jon Goodridge at London Irish

Tackle of the season

Season’s turning point/defining moment

Well this was the closest vote of them all. Probably because it was not only hard to tell when the season turned our way (too many false dawns) but when it did turn we could not quite believe it. The signing of Andy Titterell  was seen by many as that point. Goodridge’s score at LI attracted votes. I voted for the LBP at Saracens which, to me, was the first signal that the times they were a-changing. 37% of voters plumped for the magnificent – Away win at Wasps.

Unsung hero

Apart from our travelling fans (who are all sung heroes) there are plenty of people who work behind the scenes to make the club what it is today:  Diccon Edwards at the academy, John Bentley in the community, Jason Booth preparing the pitch and Phil Daly raising the club’s profile to name but a few. Most fans have discerned that the squad are stronger and fitter than they have ever been and that this is down to one man. Our unsung hero will be missed next season – Steve Nance.  

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