As the end of the Premiership season draws closer, it provides a perfect opportunity to take a look back at some of those who have impressed the most over 20 rounds of high-octane action.
Aviva Premiership’s Best Performers
Over 12 clubs, players in the Aviva Premiership have displayed some jaw-dropping and inspirational moments of play for fans to feast upon. Of course those individuals who have represented national teams and who have now been picked to tour New Zealand with the British and Irish Lions in the summer have been particularly outstanding. But across the spectrum of England’s top flight league, more than the 16 picked to face the All Blacks have impressed, and have contributed to one of the dramatic season’s on record.
Josh Beaumont
Beaumont has been a stalwart of Sale this season, not only as their club captain but as a reliable figurehead. His independent strength in defence partnered with an ability to swallow meters in progression to the oppositions line makes him a formidable force for the Sharks. As the Premierships top lineout winner (92 across the first 20 rounds) he has done more than earn his place on the plane to Argentina for England this summer. However, Eddie Jones seems to have overlooked Beaumont’s ferocity and has opted for players with more international experience – perhaps a wise decision bearing in mind Beaumont’s lack of test series action. Nevertheless, since making his Premiership debut in 2013 he has grown into an well-rounded 25 year old who can hold the weight of responsibility when it matters the most.
Jordan Crane
Ever a fan favourite, Crane’s switch to west-country side Bristol left a gaping hole at previous cub Leicester. It speaks volumes that the former Tiger was invited to be their testimonial player for this 2016/17 season, despite a move down south to compete against them. At Bristol, his consistency and dependability has given volume to what has sometimes been a lacklustre performance. With only three wins from 20, the club has bounced around the bottom of the league table all season long. However the number eight has more often than not given sparks of hope and has climbed the table of the leagues best performers. With 174 carries and a turnover rate higher than most, Crane has flourished at Bristol and, if he decides to stay loyal to the club, would be a genuine star player in the Championship next season.
Vereniki Goneva
The Fijian has soared at Newcastle this season. His speed and tenacity has provided supporters with epic try-scoring moments and play making excitement. The off-loading winger, who can also feature at centre, is statistically amongst the top players in the Premiership. However you don’t need to scan the spreadsheets to recognise his importance for the Falcons – his natural ability, fast feet and quick thinking makes him one of the most dangerous attackers in England. Like a coiled spring, he launches up field with the ball in hand and can off-load with pin-point precision. Goneva has no doubt been the culprit of some of this season’s most thrilling moments.
Maro Itoje
The simple fact is that Itoje has become one of England’s best ever locks. Tipped as one of the finest prospects since Martin Johnson, “Super Maro” has rocked domestic and international rugby for the past four years after his senior Saracens debut aged 19. At 6’5”, his agility and athleticism makes him more versatile than others in his position, whilst his beastly attacking ability sends tremors through some of the worlds hardiest packs. He has been a stand out figure for Saracens again this season, despite the team being littered with world class players. With accolades and awards a plenty, there can only be better things to come from this 22 year old. Following his captaincy experience with England’s IRB Junior World Championship winning side of 2014, he is a hot favourite to become Saracens and England captain in the not too distant future.
Stephen Myler
Having made his debut for Northampton Saints in 2006, Myler has always played a significant role for the Midlands based side. A master of controlling the game, the fly-half has racked up more than 2,500 points in over 300 games – a great feat in the era of professional rugby. The former rugby league player has brought Saints back from the brink on more than a few sketchy games, kicking with his golden boot 260 times in this season’s Premiership alone. Whilst his availability in the final two round of the league are a major doubt, thanks to a knee injury picked up against Saracens in the middle of April, he has been the epitome of excellence in this testimonial year of his. Sure to have a few more years on the clock, Myler is one of Saints most valuable resources.
With still two rounds of the domestic season yet, plus play offs and the big Twickenham final on 27th May, there is plenty of action to wait for and, undoubtedly, more spectacular displays from the leagues most talented players. One thing is for sure; the battle for English rugby’s most sought after trophy has been fiercer than ever this season.
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