To celebrate the Blues’ incredible achievements in 2016, which heralded a league and cup double, plus a place in the quarter-finals of the Champions League, the Club hosted an awards night in the Legends Lounge, presented by Pioneer Group.
Five City stars were presented with awards for the Timeline TV Rising Star, Vitality Fitness, Pioneer Community, Nissan Goal of the Season and Etihad Airways Player of the Season.
A total of 250 fans and special guests turned out to party with the champions on a night filled with laughter and fond memories, as attendees looked back on the season highlights – on and off the pitch – and enjoyed fine food and a raffle.
Lucy Bronze, who had already been named the Official Supporters’ Club’s Player of the Year and FA WSL Players’ Player of the Year, collected the Club’s Player of the Season gong, presented by Etihad Airways.
“To have the fans’ vote is brilliant,” she smiled. “We finished last season on a winning streak and we wanted to carry that on.
“The fans have carried us this season. We wanted to win trophies and we’ve done that.
“We’ve obviously got to keep building on that. I know it’s a big ask but that’s what the club want and that’s what we’re aiming for as players.”
Also a fan vote, Toni Duggan’s stunning turn-and-finish against Brondby IF claimed the Nissan Goal of the Season award.
The forward laughed: “With your left, you’re just hoping to get it on target! I think KB would have saved it!
“On a serious note, it was such a big game and I was just delighted to score.”
Captain Steph Houghton scooped the Vitality Fitness Award, having completed the most minutes on the pitch.
She declared: “I’m glad I’ve been able to play every game and stay injury-free. At club level, this year has been the best yet.
“I want to play every game and every training session. Even if the physios say I need a rest, I want to be involved. That’s the type of player we have here.
“You have to be the best team you can be. We’ve shown that we are and there are exciting times coming up.”
Keira Walsh was named the Timeline TV Rising Star, reflecting: “It’s a real honour: getting a trophy like this at such a great club. it could have been any one of us.
“It makes me feel proud. It’s been a tough season for me with injury but it’s nice to be recognised.”
Izzy Christiansen picked up the Pioneer Community Award for her work off the pitch, inspiring youngsters across the country.
“I thoroughly enjoy the work I do with City in the Community,” she said. “I hope it will continue.”
