Maxed out

Congratulations to Danielle Maxwell, who has been named the 2023 Sports Direct Women’s Premiership Player of the Year.

In a campaign that saw Cliftonville Ladies lift the County Antrim Cup and League Cup, as well as reach the Final of the Avenir Sports All-Ireland Cup and Electric Ireland Challenge Cup, Maxwell struck 14 goals in 17 League appearances as the Reds finished second in the League.

“I love scoring goals and providing assists, but it’s a team sport and I wouldn’t have won this individual trophy if it wasn’t for the help of my team-mates,” said the 21-year-old, who also found the net in Cliftonville’s Women’s Champions League clash with BIIK in Lisbon.

“It was a special season as we reached four Cup Finals, but it was disappointing not to collect more silverware. But it’s given us something to build on for next season.

“The most important thing, however, is the growth of the league with bigger attendances and more media coverage than ever before.

“I’d like to thank the NI Football Writers for this award.”