CHRIS Smith is the new leader in the Evening Press player of the year rankings.

The stylish young defender has been one of the stars of City's promising start to the new season and was man of the match at Bury a week last Friday.

He also picked up a point for another polished display at Bramall Lane on Tuesday night in the Worthington Cup.

Ominously for those with their eyes on the title, it hasn't taken long for two-time defending champion Alan Fettis to get off the mark.

The City goalkeeper made his first start of the season at Gigg Lane and then got the man of the match award against Sheffield United.

It's probably been a bit overdue given his form, but Stephen Brackstone has also registered his first points, collecting the two points up for grabs against both the Shakers and the Blades.

Skipper Chris Brass was the recipient of the only other point against Bury.

Points placings: Smith 9pts, Duffield 8, Parkin 7, Beresford 5, Brass 5, Brackstone 4, Cowan 4, Fettis 3, Edmondson 1, Jones 1, Nogan 1.

Updated: 11:17 Saturday, September 14, 2002