Editor of Kick Off, Richard Maguire, says: "The Kick Off Footballer of the Season Award, presented by Ballantine’s Finest Whiskey, has become one of the measures by which players assess their season – players want to know how they are perceived by the public, and how their personalities have impacted on South Africa's football fans. It's as much about performing on the pitch as it is about being an upstanding member of society, and the final eight nominees as voted for by the public illustrate this point. Amongst them we have real leaders, players who continually show fighting spirit and who put the team's success before their own.”

The final round of public voting will now take place until the awards ceremony on Thursday, 28 May.

Ballantine’s brand manager, Daryl Dixon, adds: “We’re delighted with the overwhelming response from the South African football fan community who voted for their Kick Off Footballer Of The Season Award Top 8 nominees. These players have certainly left an Impression on all of the fans and they’re all worthy of being named the Footballer of the Season.” 

The finalists for the Kick Off Footballer of the Season Awards, presented by Ballantine’s Finest Whiskey are:

  • Mandla Masango (Kaizer Chiefs);
  • Lehlohonolo Majoro (Orlando Pirates);
  • Mulomowandau Mathoho (Kaizer Chiefs);
  • Oupa Manyisa (Orlando Pirates);
  • Tefu Mashamaite (Kaizer Chiefs);
  • Andile Jali (Bafana Bafana);
  • Cuthbert Malajila (Mamelodi Sundowns); and
  • Thulani Hlatshwayo (Bidvest Wits).

To vote for your favourite player for the Ballantine’s Finest Whisky presents Kick Off Footballer of the Season Award, as well as the Finest Moment of the Season, visit www.kickoff.com (Poll on homepage). Alternatively, email [email protected] (Vote FOTS in the subject line) or write to Kick Off at PO BOX 16368, Vlaeberg, 8018.