Cliftonville's Joe Gormley named NIFWA Player of the Month for September

Gormley bagged a staggering eight goals in the month, from six games.

The hotshot hit doubles against Lisburn Distillery, Institute and Ards as well as finding the net against Ballymena United and Warrenpoint Town.

Gormley’s second against Ards draws him level in the all-time Cliftonville goalscoring charts, on 170 goals.

Upon collecting the Belleek trophy, Gormley said, “I was top goalscorer last season, and I would love to win that award again, so I’m delighted that I’ve already scored 14 goals this season.

“It would also be great to beat Kevin McGarry’s Cliftonville record, but the most important thing is that Cliftonville win.

“We’ve had a few ups and downs this season but we’ve won our last two in the league now, so I think we’re back on track.

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

Gormley’s Cliftonville will play Crusaders at Seaview on Friday night.

NIFWA Chair Keith Bailie said, “Joe faced some stiff competition this month, but it’s impossible to ignore his phenomenal goalscoring record. He is one of the finest finishers the Irish League has ever seen. Last season he won our Golden Boot, and you wouldn’t back against him winning it again this season.”

Ards goalkeeper Sam Johnston was runner-up, with Glenavon’s Josh Daniels in third.