By Andrew Collins
June 14 2005

CRSC have announced their official 'Player of The Year' and 'Most Improved Player' awards. The Cardiff Rugby Supporter's Club chose the awards based on their and other fans votes for man of the match throughout the season.

The award for CRSC's Supporters Player of the Year goes to our captain, the RBS 6 Nations man of the tournament, and British Lion, Martyn Williams. He made 17 appearances for the Blues following a summer off, given when Wales toured Argentina by Mike Ruddock.

The 29-year-old, who has scored 2 tries this season, takes the award from last seasons winner Jamie Robinson. 'Nugget' picks up the award following his toughest season as captain, in what can only be described as the worst season Cardiff or the Blues have had in recent memory. However Mr. consistent is sure to be out to turn our fortunes next season, and with new back row partner Xavier Rush arriving, Martyn may even have to watch his award.

Other awards given were 'Most Improved Player of The Year' which rightly goes to Martyn's fellow flanker, Robin Sowden-Taylor. Robin has been highly touted since coming through the ranks as a youngster, but the 22-year-old has found breaking into the first team hard with Williams ahead of him. Robin plays a similar game to Martyn and is sure to fill the void when Williams does retire, both with Cardiff and Wales, particularly following such an excellent season for the youngster.

Robin adjusted his game to fill the gap at 6 formerly occupied by Dan Baugh and forced his way into the line-up making 17 appearances and getting called up in Wales' grand slam team. He completed an excellent season by being called up to Wales' squad for their North America tour, and getting a 3-year contract extension saying,

"I have always played for Cardiff and always wanted to,"

As for Cardiff RFC, the player of the year award goes to Dan McShane. The 24-year-old would be in the Blues side had he not chosen to play part-time for Cardiff 2-years ago when he decided to go to University. Dan Will be completing his course by next year, and will then decide whether to go back to being full-time, making himself available for the Blues, or leave the club to take up a career.

Either way, McShane has had an excellent year being the leading light in line-outs and scrums and being an extremely effective ball carrier.

Well done to all 3, keep up the good work. The ArmsPark.tk awards will be announced by the end of the week, the supporter’s player of the year can be determined by you, cast your vote in the poll found on the side of the page for your player of the year.