THE BENCH

Nico Martinez, Western Sydney Wanderers

Not missing a beat, even when his team mates were struggling, Martinez was able to perform at his best even when his team was at their worst. Putting in a series of solid performances when the Wanderers were struggling to win, Martinez showed his class.

Although only on loan with the club, his consistency in the Wanderers forward line certainly secured him a place in the hearts of the club’s fans. Assisting eight goals for Wanderers and scoring a further four, he played a key role in the team’s push to reach the finals.

Bruno Fornaroli, Melbourne City

While it wasn’t quite the same season he had last year, Fornaroli still impressed big time this year. Missing a consecutive Golden Boot by just two goals, Fornaroli was the third best striker in the A-League, only behind Berisha and Maclaren.

He was consistent with his shooting, hitting the target more often than not and forcing several keepers into desperate saves. He put 49 shots on target all season (compared to Berisha’s 36) and if he had more luck, may have seen himself end the season as the league’s top scorer.