London Irish 2016/17 Award Winners announced

Mike Coman scooped Player of the Season at London Irish’s Annual End of Season Awards Dinner at Hazelwood on Wednesday night.

Back row Coman, 29, has been a cornerstone of the Exiles’ pack this campaign since making the switch from Edinburgh Rugby last summer.

Chief Executive Bob Casey, who spent 10 years as a second row at Irish, has described Coman as the player he would have most liked to have played with during his time at the club. High praise indeed, for a player who has taken the Championship by storm.

The Players’ Player of the Season gong went to Sebastian De Chaves, with the South African lock dotting down four times in 22 appearances to help his side reach the Greene King IPA Championship Play-off Finals.

Like Coman, De Chaves was a summer recruit and has been a revelation with his expertise at the lineout coupled with his abrasive ball carrying ability.

Meanwhile, the Young Player of the Season Award went to Harry Elrington, the Academy graduate taking his game to the next level under the gaze of Director of Rugby Nick Kennedy.

Plying his trade at loosehead, Elrington, 23, has played 19 times for Irish this season and was a try-scorer on his debut during a 36-12 victory over Richmond back in September.

Elrington came through the junior ranks alongside Joe Cokanasiga, who was the recipient of the Try of the Season Award for his explosive score against London Scottish last autumn.

The Play-off Final, 7.45pm Wednesday 24 May, Madejski Stadium - London Irish v Yorkshire Carnegie. Tickets from only £10 for adults and £1 for children from www.lidirect.co.uk  or 0118 968 1016.