Maswanganyi, Rayners or Williams for big award? Top 3 coaches speak

Orlando Pirates head coach Jose Riveiro, Stellenbosch's Steve Barker and Rulani Mokwena of Mamelodi Sundowns  have each had their stance on Patrick Maswanganyi, Iqraam Rayners and Ronwen Williams' chances of being named Player of the Season.

Bucs continued their relentless form with a 4-0 thumping of hapless Royal AM at the Harry Gwala Stadium on Sunday, with strikes from Patrick Maswanganyi, Kabelo Dlamini, Relebohile Mofokeng and Thelente Mbatha.

READ | Pirates urged keep hold of 'big-game' star amid exit talks

Maswanganyi was voted Man of the Match and further added credibility to his candidacy for the grand prize of being crowned the PSL Player of the Season for the 2023/24 campaign.

Speaking to the media after the match, Riveiro said, "I think people are in love with him. Who am I to say who the people should love or identify as the Player of the Season? I think South African football fans have a good taste in football, they know the football they want to see, and let's see.

"In the end, it's important that the team is getting good results, good performances and within that the individuals can shine, and [Maswanganyi] is a clear candidate. But let's see."

Meanwhile, just a day prior to that, another candidate raised his hand for contention as Rayners struck a mind-boggling five goals to help Stellies see off Polokwane City on Saturday.

Head coach Barker believes the big centre-forward is a strong candidate for the coveted award.

"He has gone to top goal scorer in the league and, for me, he is definitely playing himself in contention to be Player of the Season. Today he showed his quality as a goal scorer,'' Barker said.

ALSO READ | Rulani picks Player of the Season, weighs in on Pirates star

Downs coach Mokwena