Matchday 22 of the Vanarama National League was spectacular, with 53 goals across 12 heated fixtures. The football match between AFC Fylde and Dorking Wanderers took center stage, delivering a six-goal spectacle that kept viewers glued to the TNT Sports channel.
Let’s delve deeper into their picks and get the full scoop on the weekend’s standout performers.
Vanarama National League
This weekend, Vanarama named their team of the weekend for matchday 22, highlighting outstanding performances from players across all 24 teams in the league.
Goalkeepers and Defenders
Goalkeeper George Sykes-Kenworthy of York City continues to impress. Despite being reduced to 10 men after just 19 minutes at Maidenhead United, Sykes-Kenworthy maintained composure, saving five out of six shots and ensuring a commendable 1-1 draw.
Wealdstone captain Jack Cook led the way in defense. His match-winning brace against rivals Wealdstone solidifies the Stones’ impressive undefeated home streak at Grosvenor Vale.
Cian Harries of Aldershot Town proved pivotal in their 1-0 win over FC Halifax Town, leading the league in defensive actions. His tireless work rate was unmatched, making more successful attempts than any other defender.
Mustapha Olagunju of Ebbsfleet United, on loan from Huddersfield Town, earns his spot in the defense. In Olagunju’s presence, the Fleet has been defeated only twice in five games.
Midfielders
Chesterfield’s Ollie Banks displayed an inspiring performance helping to extend their lead at the summit to 11 points. Banks not only scored his fifth and sixth goals of the season against Eastleigh but also led in shots, dribbles, and progressive runs among central midfielders.
Greg Cundle, midfield partner at Chesterfield, joins Banks in midfield after his contributions in their 4-1 victory over Oldham. Cundle not only scored a goal but also provided an assist, tying with Banks on a league-leading five progressive runs.
Forwards
James McShane of Dorking Wanderers ended his goal drought, scoring his first goal since September 19 in a thrilling 3-3 draw against AFC Fylde. Last season’s top scorer for the Wanderers, McShane, also assisted Josh Taylor’s strike.
Michael Cheek of Bromley demonstrated his reliability as a goal source, scoring twice in the 4-1 win at Hartlepool United. Cheek’s brace came from just five touches in the box, further illustrating his clinical finishing.
Rounding off the National League XI is Boreham Wood’s Tyrone Marsh. Marsh contributed both offensively and defensively in their 4-2 victory over Woking, scoring twice and leading the loose ball duels among strikers.
Vanarama National League North
In Scarborough Athletic’s sweeping victory, Finlay Barnes, a loanee from York City, emerged as the star of the show. While his goal was the highlight, Barnes also dominated the field, winning five successful loose ball duels – a feat unmatched by any other player in his position. The young talent also demonstrated his passing skills, contributing 15 forward passes, the highest in the match.
Brackley Town’s veteran Gaz Dean delivered a match-winning performance in his team’s 1-0 triumph over Alfreton Town. Apart from scoring the decisive goal, Dean shone in aerial combat, winning ten aerial duels, the third-highest in the division.
No discussion would be complete without mentioning Dion Sembie-Ferris. The Scunthorpe United loanee, currently with Peterborough Sports, struck twice to secure a thrilling 3-2 win over Blyth Spartans. Despite an xG of just 0.79, Sembie-Ferris has managed to contribute five goals since rejoining his former team.
Vanarama National League South
The highlight of this weekend’s action was undoubtedly Tristan Abrahams from Welling United. His breathtaking hat-trick put an end to Yeovil Town’s 12-game unbeaten run in a resounding 4-1 victory. This remarkable feat was achieved with an xG of just 0.85, demonstrating Abraham’s clinical finishing skills.
In Slough Town’s comfortable 3-0 win against Braintree Town, midfielder Johnny Goddard set the tone. Attempting four shots and six ball recoveries in the opposing half, Goddard ranked second among all wide midfielders in the League South.
Last but not least, Tonbridge Angels’ Tariq Hinds showcased his versatility and attacking prowess. The full-back opened his season account with a double in their 4-1 win over Havant & Waterlooville. Throughout the match, no other full-back attempted more shots (3) or recorded more progressive runs (8) than Hinds. This weekend’s standout performers made the Vanarama National League South a spectacle to watch.
Final Thoughts
As the season progresses, it’s clear that there is no shortage of talent in the Vanarama National League. The team of the weekend picks from Vanarama highlights some of the best performers in the league, showcasing their skills and contributions to their teams’ success.
With each matchday bringing more excitement and drama, fans can expect even more standout performances as we move towards the final stretch of the season. Keep an eye out for these names and more as they continue to make their mark in the world of soccer odds.
