As goalkeeper for a side brimming with an attacking arsenal, Canberra United's Lydia Williams is content to keep a low profile.
But Williams deservedly emerged from the shadows after being named player of the year at the club's presentation evening at Dickson Tradies last night.
United's squad swapped its soccer kit for glamorous frocks to celebrate the most dominant campaign by any club in W-League history.
With Michelle Heyman, Taryn Hemmings and Sally Shipard slicing teams to shreds, Australian Matildas regular Williams hasn't received the plaudits she deserves.
Williams conceded just 11 goals in Canberra's unbeaten 12-match run, a vital statistic in helping United to a breakthrough W-League title.
''I don't think there's any doubt she's been the most outstanding goalkeeper in the league, she's been so rock solid at the back and gives the team confidence,'' Capital Football chief executive Heather Reid said.
Canberra's offensive potency was illustrated by the fact it was kept scoreless just once this season.
But its defensive unit, headed by Williams, Caitlin Cooper, Nicole Sykes and skipper Ellie Brush, has been just as crucial.
The trio are stalwarts of the club and have forged a unique understanding.
''Those three and myself have all been in the back line for the last three years, and the best way to create a partnership is to be together for the long haul,'' Williams said.
''I guess the results this year are speaking for themselves.''
In other major awards, striker Michelle Heyman won the player's player gong, judged on 3-2-1 votes submitted at the end of every match.
The 23-year-old scored 15 goals, the highest tally in a single season, on her way to a second golden boot award.
Midfielder Jennifer Bisset was recognised for a breakout season when she collected the rising star award.
The foundation player celebrated her 20th birthday on grand final day, and forced her way into the side's starting line-up this campaign.
Playmaker Shipard's consistent form was recognised with the supporter's player of the year award.
Canberra United award winners:
Player of the year: Lydia Williams
Player's player: Michelle Heyman
Rising star award: Jennifer Bisset
Supporter's player of the year: Sally Shipard
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