Redlands United were in finals contention throughout the NPL Queensland season, before falling just short of the knock-out fixtures to finish the season in fifth place. Assured at the back and with a multitude of options in attack, Redlands were one of the league’s most entertaining teams despite contending with injuries to key personnel throughout the campaign.

Redlands United’s efforts earned the club three nominations to the Supporters XI.

 

Reuben Way (Left Wing)

Strong and fast with the ball at his feet, few defenders relished the sight of Reuben Way coming at them down the left flank. Equally adept as playing in a teammate as scoring himself, the 23 year old forward notched up an impressive 18 goals across the campaign – including spectacular hauls of five against CQFC Energy and four against Palm Beach Sharks.

Way was nominated to the Supporters XI by Brisbane Strikers head coach David Large and Brisbane City head coach Glen Volker. Large summed up Way’s weapons succinctly – “He is big, strong and quick, with a deadly left foot.”

Graham Fyfe (Left Midfield)

One of the most nominated players in the Supporters XI, the hard-working and always available Graham Fyfe is the glue that holds together the Redlands midfield. A genuinely two-footed player, Fyfe’s distribution in attack, tenacity in defence and abilities with the dead ball have seen him become a fan favourite on the Bayside, where the man they call “Fyfey” scored 13 goals this season.

A recipient of four nominations to the Supporters XI, Fyfe is not without his admirers around the league. Sunshine Coast Fire Head Coach Kevin A’Herne-Evans said of Fyfe, “He is lethal from set pieces and is the go to man for Redlands. His experience is a vital factor for the bayside club.”

FNQ FC Heat Technical Director Chris Collins also endorsed the Redlands talisman, “He is class on the ball, creates his own time and space and scores important goals.”

Hayden Eames (Right Fullback)

A product of the Manchester United Academy in his home town, 29 year old Manchurian Hayden Eames filled a number of roles for Redlands as the club struggled with injuries to key players.

Ostensibly a midfielder, Eames pedigree saw him fill in at right fullback to great effect for the Devils this year. His vision and distribution was crucial to Redlands notoriously swift counter-attacks, while his tackling and positioning made Cleveland Showgrounds one of the most testing away trips in the league.

Eames was nominated to the Supporters XI by Western Pride Head Coach Kasey Wehrman, against whom he received a red card in their July fixture.

 

For details on how to support your club and reward your favourite players and be in the chance to win a signed Brisbane Roar football, follow the link to the 2013 NPL Queensland Supporters XI competition page - http://bit.ly/19Wa0Pj

 

Words: Michael Flynn (Football Queensland)