Mpumalanga Black Aces midfielder Aubrey Modiba has set himself the challenge of replicating the success of Keagan Dolly next season.

The 20-year-old enjoyed a successful breakthrough season with AmaZayoni playing an integral part in the club fourth place finish in the Absa Premiership; his form earning him the Absa Premiership Young Player of the Season award at the PSL awards on Monday.

‘This award means a lot, I have been working very hard for it and I am happy that I got it,’ Modiba told Goal.

‘It is not about me, it is about teamwork and the technical team who gave me the platform.’

Aces’ highest ever finish in the Absa Premiership has given the ambitious young star the desire to perform even better next season.

‘It was a good season indeed for Aces, first time ending fourth, but we did aim to end third even though I think we should have done better. We will now focus on next season,’ he added.

‘I was looking at his [Dolly’s] progress, now he was nominated for three awards – top awards,’ Modiba said.

‘I am taking every game as it comes. I am eager to better this next season and obviously do well for the team and win silverware. I want to be back at the awards next year.’

This season Modiba has made a total of 29 appearances for Aces, picking up three assist in all competitions.

Photo: Muzi Ntombela/Backpagepix