Westfield W-League champions Melbourne City have named defender Lauren Barnes as their Player of the Year for the 2017/18 Season.
The American beat out strong competition to be named the standout player at a glamorous club event on Monday night.
In her second campaign with City, Barnes was instrumental in securing a third successive Grand Final triumph as the defending champions came from fourth to beat Sydney FC in February’s decider.
The 28-year-old helped Patrick Kisnorbo’s side to a league-best seven clean sheets and notched two assists along the way.
What a season. What a set of special ladies! Congratulations to all of our @WLeague award winners, especially Player of the Year, @laurenkb31! pic.twitter.com/dknlK4l3mc
— Melbourne City FC (@MelbourneCity) April 16, 2018
“Lauren has been exceptional for us in an outstanding team,” Kisnorbo said.
“She is one of the most hard-working and dedicated athletes, plays with her heart on her sleeve and set out to achieve wonderful things with this team.
“She has been a positive and inspirational role model for our younger players [and] led by example throughout the season.”
Barnes is currently turning out for Seattle Reign – also home to City team-mates Lydia Williams and Steph Catley – in the NWSL.
Elsewhere, Catley claimed the Coach’s Award, while midfield ace Jess Fishlock scooped the Golden Boot for her seven strikes.
