Andrew Higgins is Supporters' Player of the Month

November's choice
By Duncan Wood
December 11 2002

Following in the footsteps this season of Garath Archer and Felipe Contepomi,Andrew Higgins has been named Bristol Shoguns Supporters Club Player of the Month. It should prove to be a very popular choice.

It was a really difficult decision this month and the Supporters Club committee had 3 names in the frame and literally could not come to a majority decision.

Therefore, chairman David Higgs, appealed for some input from the Bristol faithful and the popular choice was Andrew Higgins.

I'll quote David:

"Andrew Higgins - who has shown tremendous form since his return from injury. He has clearly benefited from the arrival of Daryl Gibson giving him greater space to show his elusive running and pace. But it is his hard hitting tackling which surprises many and surely it will not be long before the England selectors take note."

The games in question were Sale (away), Newcastle (home), Irish (home) and Bath (away).

Andrew, of course, scored twice in the Newcastle win and scored a great try in the historic away win at Bath. But it was also his all round contribution to attack and defence that earned him the verdict.

Others who deserve an honourable mention:

Daryl Gibson - who it is widely recognised has made a great contribution in his time at the club so far

Shane Drahm - must consider himself very, very unlucky not to get the choice as he had a sensational month and completely won the crowdover.

Rhys Oakley - an unexpected starter against Montferrand but a worthy starter ever since and Man of the Match versus Bath.

Paul Johnstone - playing out of position at hooker and giving it absolutely everything.

Phil Christophers - two tries against Newcastle and a fine Twickenham debut.

Andrew will be presented with a Bristol Blue Glass rugby ball in the near future.