Despite his team finishing at the bottom end of the Solomon Islands Football Federation (SIFF) Super Futsal League table, Koa Hill FC’s prolific goal scorer Junior Michael has claimed the Golden Boot award.
The 20-year-old forward ended the season with an impressive 31 goals, topping the league’s scoring chart.
Speaking to Star Sports after the league’s presentation on Tuesday, Michael said, the award was a significant milestone in his young career.
“I am really happy and proud to receive this Golden Boot award. It is my first time winning such an award in the Super League, and it’s a huge achievement for myself and my team,” he said.
Michael credited his teammates for playing a crucial role in his success.
“I have to thank my teammates at Koa Hill FC for always pushing me and helping me win this award. Without them, I don’t think I would have achieved this,” he added.
A long-time member of Koa Hill since their promotion to the Super League in 2023, Michael acknowledged that earning the accolade took perseverance.
“It’s not easy to get such an award. I’ve worked hard over the past two or three seasons, pushing myself to the limits, and I think this award shows that all the hard work has paid off.”
Despite Koa Hill’s poor showing this season, Michael remains determined to lead his side to a stronger campaign next year.
“Looking ahead to next season, and seeing how we finished this year, I will urge my boys to work even harder and come back stronger,” he said.
Tuesday’s presentation also saw newly crowned champions Dawn FC dominated the individual awards. Kurukuru goalkeeper Cliff Sasau took home the Golden Glove, rising star Jayroll Patty received the Golden Ball, while head coach Arthur Bako was named Coach of the Year.
By TIMOTHY INIFIRI JNR
Solomon Star, Honiara