Of course, due to social distancing restrictions with the COVID-19 pandemic, this year’s awards ceremony, presented by Pioneer, was conducted digitally.
Three City stars were presented with awards for the Etihad Player of the Season, the Nissan Goal of the Season and QNET Rising Star.
The ceremony was hosted by Social Media Producer Abigail Withey, as we looked back on another special campaign for City and the women’s game, which of course kicked off with our historic Manchester Derby victory over Manchester United and garnered plenty more highs along the way!
For the second successive season, captain Steph Houghton clinched the Etihad Player of the Season award for her outstanding efforts.
The skipper featured in every single game and as always, led by example. However, ever humble, the inspirational defender was pleasantly surprised to have retained the award.
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“I’m a bit surprised to be honest!” she laughed. “It’s not the season we would have wanted in terms of not being able to finish it but I’m delighted (to receive this award).
“Thanks to all the fans for voting. There are so many more players, who could have won the award.
“A big thank you. As a team, we’ve performed well over the last season and so many players have played consistently well.
“The fans are the people who come and watch every week, who turn up at the Academy Stadium and travel away to watch us play.
“The fans are a vital part of what we do and the success we’ve had over the last six years.”
Meanwhile, unsurprisingly, Caroline Weir clinched the Nissan Goal of the Season gong with her spectacular long-range strike against United at the Etihad Stadium.
The Scot claimed an astonishing 79% of the votes with her rocket - the first ever goal in a professional women’s Manchester Derby - and was delighted to receive the award.
“It’s an honour,” she said. “There were some really good goals scored this season so it’s nice to come out on top.
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“It was a special goal. With the circumstances - the game itself: it was a big day - it was a proud moment for me personally.
“At the time, we were focused on starting the season well and with it being a Derby, we wanted to get three points.
“At the time, I didn’t really realise the history of it all. People ask me about it now and I get it more.
“It was a hugely proud moment.”
Youngster Lauren Hemp scooped the QNET Rising Star Award, following an impressive campaign.
The teenager, who won the MCWFC Official Supporters Clubs’ Player of the Season award and was nominated for the FA Women’s Super League’s own edition, made a key contribution with goals and assists, including two crucial strikes against Arsenal and Chelsea, and earned her senior England debut.
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“I’m really happy,” she smiled. “It’s nice to be recognised and be given this award for what has been a really good season for the team and for me as well.
“I’m quite pleased with how I’ve performed this season. Obviously, I still have a lot I can give and I’m working hard to do that next season - I know I’m not the finished article.
“I’m pleased to have added to the team’s success and to help contribute to many goals and assists throughout.”
