Golden boys are crowned

GOAL-GETTERS get all the glory, don’t they? Irrespective of how their team are performing, the No.9s and No 10s are invariably the ones who grab the headlines when The NLP hits the newsstands on a Sunday morning.

So, while we make a point of acknowledging and appreciaing the eforts of their teammates, managers, clubs and supporters in other National Game Awards categories, we have set aside a separate accolade to honour Non-League’s top net-baggers in the shape of our NGA Golden Boot.

Some top marksmen, such as last year’s winner, Marske United’s Adam Boyes, have taken home the prized decanter, now it’s time to crown our 2022-23 winner at AFC Wimbledon’s Plough Lane Stadium on Tuesday May 23.

And what a hotbed of prolific talent there is in contention.

Top of the list is undoubtedly Macaulay Langstaff. The Notts County striker broke all National League records by smashing 42 goals in his first season at Step 1, surpassing the previous record of 40, set by Ricky Miller – not bad considering that not one of his haul came from the penalty spot.

As has been the case all season, Langstaff will be rivalled for the top award by his opposite No.10 in the epic National League title race, Paul Mullin, who has expertly led the line for champions Wrexham in 2022-23.

Mullin has orchestrated the Hollywood party with 46 goals from 51 games in all competitions – 39 in the league and seven in the FA Cup.

His contribution led Wrexham to 111 points and 116 goals in 2022-23 and, as a result, the 28-year-old has even been linked with an international call-up with Wales.

Both of these golden boys, however, have plenty of competition for the top award from lower down the pyramid at Steps 3 and 4.

AFC Sudbury’s Nnamdi Nwachuku smashed an incredible 49 goals in 38 games as the Suds gained promotion from Isthmian North, alerting the attention of several Football League scouts along the way.

Liam Hughes is already ladened with awards this term, picking up the Supporters’ and Players’ Player of the Season trophies, as well as the Golden Boot, after his 42 goals in 45 games for NLP East champions Worksop Town, while former Tranmere Rovers man Jonny Margetts has been stacking up crazy numbers too at Stamford.

All would be a perfect fit to grace the glittering NGA stage come May 23, but who will be crowned the official goal king?