Sweeney has to be in pole for player prize

VOTING is open for Burton Albion's player of the season awards and it would seem likely that the result will be as clear-cut as last season's was, although with a different winner.

- By COLSTON CRAWFORD

It always seems slightly odd that people have to make their voting decision before the season is concluded but it’s also understandable - at least the presentation evening is not until after the Brewers’ fate is known.

Last year, goalkeeper Max Crocombe was an overwhelming and hugely popular winner, not least because any Burton fans could point to moments in the season when his saves directly resulted in points saved as Albion avoided relegation by the skin of their teeth.

Crocombe was in his first season with the club and made a huge impression, not just by his performances but because of the way he conducted himself around the club.

He is a gentleman and his acceptance speech proved it as he paid fulsome tribute to the goalkeeper whose place he took early in the season, Jamal Blackman, for supporting him throughout the campaign.

There have been moments this season, too, when Crocombe’s work has contributed to points saved but not as many, because however difficult this campaign has been, the defence has generally had a more solid look to it, especially since Gary Bowyer has been in charge.

The Brewers have not really been hammered in a game, unlike the clubs around them in the relegation battle, which is why they go into the last three games with a significantly better goal difference than the clubs they are competing with. It could yet make the difference, not that we want things to be that close.