With the Football Wagga season closed out without a proper finish, no silverware will be handed out, so we thought, why not throw the best first graders from Leeton and Hanwood into an MIA All-Stars team.
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As the season rolled on, Hanwood was undefeated and looked set to reach their third grand final in as many years, and Leeton United were their nearest challengers on the ladder as they looked to defend their title.
It seemed fated the two would meet again in a replay of the 2020 decider before lockdown struck.
Goal Keeper
Nicholas Zappala (Hanwood)
It has been another outstanding season in goal for Zappala. Outside of the one brain fade in the opening round of the season that saw him sent off, he has kept a near-flawless record. Zappala has only conceded seven goals from 12 games this season.
Left-back
Anthony Agresta (Hanwood)
It has been another strong season for the veteran defender. Didn't miss a game this season and is always solid on the left side of defence, and can provide when going forward as well. Chipped in with goals as well this season after finding the back of the net five times.
Centre Backs
Joey Fondacaro (Leeton United)
The Leeton United skipper has another strong season in defence. Featured in every game for the United side this season and his efforts helped his side keep a strong defensive record as Leeton only conceded 11 goals this season.
Sevi Tropea (Hanwood)
The commanding centre back had another strong season. Having battled injuries for stages of last season, he was able to be a more permanent member of the side. A defender who will always be willing to put his body and won't shy away from a physical battle.
Right-back
Nicholas Trifogli (Leeton United)
A key member of the United defence. Along with Fondacaro hasn't missed a game this season which is an improvement on last season that was impacted by injuries. Has a bit to offer going forward as well and has picked up a goal this season.
Midfield
Andrew Gamble (Hanwood)
The leader of the Hanwood side, and it is clear to see why. After having last season off, he has come back to take the captain's armband after Brad Clark step aside this season. He is the engine room for the Hanwood side and knows how to make an impact on a game. Can slot in as the holding midfielder or in the centre of defence and do a job.
Demetrio Torino (Hanwood)
Another hard-working midfielder who knows how to control a game. He has been an integral member of the Hanwood side over the past three seasons, and a key reason Hanwood are always there or thereabouts come grand final day. His passing can cut open the opposition defence.
Stuart Smeeth (Leeton United)
The final of the midfield three. Smeeth has added plenty in this couple of seasons with the United side and helped them end their title wait last season. His experience is invaluable, and another with a passing game that can open up a defence.
Left-Wing
Fredrick Gardner (Leeton United)
The first of the dangerous Gardner brothers to make the side. Fredrick possesses plenty of speed and is a constant cause for concern for the opposition defence. Has popped up to score 17 goals and has provided plenty more to help Leeton to second place.
Right Wing
Daniel Rogato (Hanwood)
In his return to first-grade football this season, he has made quite the impact. With speed to burn down the wing, if given a chance he will get in behind the defensive line. Similar to Fredrick, while he has only scored 11 goals, his assists have also been crucial.
Striker
Henri Gardner (Leeton United)
Could be deployed anywhere across the front three and be dangerous. The link-up play with his brother has been one of the reasons United are sitting second, and his impact on the United side in the past two seasons has been huge.
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Bench
Jarrod Sillis (Leeton United)
It is hard to separate him with Zappala for the starting keep position. He has been a mainstay of the United side for his entire career and is a more than capable shotstopper.
Alex Dean (Leeton United)
After coming to Leeton last season, he has become a mainstay in defence. Would have been a key performer had Leeton had the chance to defend their title.
Daniel Johnson (Hanwood)
Can come on as either a defender or attacker. Has returned to the striking position this season and finished as the golden boot leader with 21 goals.
Chaise Donetto (Hanwood)
Another of the Hanwood speedsters who has been dangerous on the wing. Has gone from strength to strength this season in his first full year of first grade.
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