Akins’ haul helps seal MVP prize
A MAIDEN NPL Women’s campaign highlighted by 25 goals has earned American striker Mackenzie Akins Gold Coast United’s Women’s Player of the Year award.
The 24-year-old Californian was last night crowned NPLW MVP at United’s inaugural awards night, with Conor Smith taking the major prize for the men’s NPL side.
Akins arrived at United this season on the comeback from a knee reconstruction during her time in Sweden, but wasted no time endearing herself to the Surfsiders faithful after striking up a fearsome combination with Meg McElligott.
While the latter departed mid-season for NPLW rivals Moreton Bay, Akins went on to play all 26 games for United, being one of only two players to do so.
Her haul of 25 goals was the sixth-most in the competition and helped her side end the season strongly en route to a sixth-placed finish.
“Right now my plan is to remain in Australia and to continue playing for Gold Coast United,” Akins said last month.
“I really enjoy being a part of a new club that supports and encourages the women’s side and I want to be a leader in the growth of this club going forward.”
English midfielder Smith, 21, scored six goals in 21 appearances this season as United finished 10th in the men’s NPL.
GC UNITED MVP WINNERS
Jack Hart (U9), Sebastian Carrabino (U10), Ethan Sardilas (U11), Tate Baldwin (U12), Rylie Uttley (U13), Cameron Anderson (U14), Josh Dimarco (U15), Mark Ritchie (U16), Tim Lahiff (U18), Harry Saunders (U20), Georgi Zerbst (U9/10 girls), Alexis Ravenscroft (U12 girls), Claudia Tisler (U13 girls), Claudia Danckert (U15 girls), Paige Taylor (U17 girls), Mackenzie Akins (NPLW), Conor Smith (NPL)