In football, the Man of the Match awards are traditionally monopolized by the goalscorers, the creative midfielders, and the flashy wingers. Goalkeepers usually only win when they perform absolute miracles to salvage a draw. However, page 18 of the November 2014 matchday programme reveals a shifting dynamic at the Euroborg: goalkeeper Sergio Padt was steadily becoming the undisputed darling of the Green-White army.
The “Essent Speler van het Jaar” column announces the voting results from the previous home victory against NAC Breda. Padt took the crown with 28% of the SMS votes, narrowly edging out the team’s creative heartbeat and number 10, Tjaronn Chery, who received 24%. The accompanying photograph shows a beaming Padt holding his award alongside two young mascots from the Junior Club.
Beating a player of Chery’s caliber in a fan vote after a home win is a significant indicator of a goalkeeper’s standing. It shows that the fans weren’t just appreciating his saves; they were recognizing his commanding presence and leadership at the back. The text notes that this victory propelled Padt to second place in the overall season standings, right behind defender Eric Botteghin, highlighting that the foundation of FC Groningen‘s success that year was built firmly on their defensive solidity.
A Look into the Future
By 2026, the image of Sergio Padt celebrating in front of the fans is etched into the club’s folklore. This early-season recognition against NAC Breda was a precursor to his heroic performances in the KNVB Cup run later that year. While attacking players like Chery eventually moved on to lucrative contracts abroad, Padt remained the anchor of the Euroborg for years, proving that sometimes, the most beloved player on the pitch is the one tasked with ruining the opponent’s fun.