In-form Gaston takes monthly awards

Da Nang’s Argentinian player Merlo Sebastian Gaston was named V-League player of the month for January and February after receiving 57 points in a poll of the country’s sports reporters, more than twice as many as his nearest rival. 

SHB Đà Nẵng and Merlo S.Gaston

Defending champions Da Nang, who are top of the V-League after three games, also clinched team of the month with 59 points, 24 points ahead of Binh Duong and Ha Noi T&T.

With two convincing wins during the month, Da Nang beat several other big names like Becamex Binh Duong, Ha Noi T&T and Hoa Phat Ha Noi to the award.

The 25-year-old striker, Merlo, has scored four goals, of which his hattrick in the opening game of the season against Hai Phong Cement in January helped him to the player of the month title, beating off Luong Van Duoc Em of Dong Thap and U-23 national team member, Hoang Dinh Tung of Lam Son Thanh Hoa.

Foreign players dominated the top 10 with seven representatives.

Last year, Merlo Gaston and Lazaro De Souza drew for the title of top scorer with both players scoring 15 goals.

Caue Benicio of Ha Noi T&T won goal of the month for his spectacular volley in a 5-1 win over Khanh Hoa.

Da Nang coach Le Huynh Duc was named coach of the month for masterminding three wins in the V-League in January and February.

The premier league picks up again on Sunday. — VNS