Alex Goode wins Premiership player of the year award

Alex Goode was crowned Aviva Premiership player of the season for 2015-16 as Saracens swept the awards night.

The 28-year-old full-back defeated other contenders which included team-mate Maro Itoje, Wasps' full-back Charles Piutau and flanker George Smith and Exeter duo fly-half Gareth Steenson and flanker Don Armand to claim the award.

Goode helped his side cruise to the top of the Premiership table by scoring four tries in 15 appearances. Although he has played second fiddle to England's full-back Mike Brown, his recent success might help him to feature in the final 15 for the summer tour to Australia.

In other awards, Saracens' Mark McCall was named director of rugby of the year, whereas Itoje completed the hat-trick for the club by winning the best under-23 player award.

Premiership Rugby director Phil Winstanley heaped praises at Goode for playing a pivotal role in Saracens’ success this season.

"Alex Goode has been one of the Premiership's most consistent performers for a number of seasons, but in this campaign has been hugely influential in Saracens' success and has produced some of the best form of his career.

"Alex's quick feet, game management, kicking game and exceptional distribution skills have been the platform for a number of Saracens' victories this season."

He is one of Premiership Rugby’s most prolific full-backs, starting 131 games in the No.15 shirt, a total only bettered by the 2014 Player of the Season Mike Brown (175), and Geordan Murphy (132).
 
Aviva Premiership Rugby Player of the Season shortlist:
 
Don Armand – Exeter Chiefs
Alex Goode – Saracens
Maro Itoje – Saracens
Charles Piutau – Wasps
George Smith – Wasps
Gareth Steenson – Exeter Chiefs