SAM Long was the big winner at Oxford United’s end of season awards.

The U’s right back scooped the Andrew Knapton supporters’ player of the season and players’ player of the season prizes at tonight’s virtual ceremony.

Long has enjoyed a brilliant campaign with his boyhood club, making 44 appearances and scoring six goals – both career-best totals.

The 26-year-old has helped United reach the Sky Bet League One play-off semi-finals, but is doubtful for the semi-finals against Blackpool after injuring his hamstring in Sunday’s win over Burton Albion.

Read also: Update on Sam Long's hamstring injury

Nevertheless, the academy graduate was delighted to pick up two prizes.

"I am very surprised and very humbled to win the two awards," he said.

"It means a lot. I have been at the club since I was a boy and I know there are some amazing players who have won these awards.

“I want to thank the fans for voting and I want to thank the players as well because that is an incredible feeling to win that award when there are so many talented players in this squad."

Read also: Karl Robinson motivated by return of fans for play-off semi-finals

Long received 49 per cent of the votes for the fans' prize, with Jack Stevens and Elliott Moore second and third. 

The award is named after loyal U’s supporter Andrew Knapton, who was known as the ‘Voice of the London Road’ at the Manor Ground.

The ceremony was broadcast live to season-ticket holders on YouTube and hosted by BBC Radio Oxford commentator Nathan Cooper.

It included contributions from chairman Sumrith ‘Tiger’ Thanakarnjanasuth, head coach Karl Robinson and club captain John Mousinho.

Goalkeeper Jack Stevens was awarded young player of the year, voted for by coaching and academy staff, for an excellent breakthrough campaign.

The 23-year-old had made just two Football League appearances when he was promoted to first-choice stopper at the beginning of December.

Stevens has since played 33 matches, keeping 13 clean sheets and making several important saves.

Read also: Five games that were crucial to Oxford United's play-off finish

"It's my first season in the first team and it's a great feeling to win this award" he said.

"Defensively we have all played our part and it has been amazing to be part of a season which now goes in to the play-offs."

Lauren Haynes was named Women’s Player of the Year and dedicated the award to Micky Lewis, who passed away in March aged just 56.

The captain worked with the U’s legend through Oxford City’s Velocity football and education programme and described him as a huge influence on her career on and off the pitch.

She said: "I learnt so much from him in the short amount of time I worked with him closely, not coaching or playing, but life skills.

"My Dad will kill me for saying it, but he is like a second Dad and you could go to him for anything.

"He always had a smile on his face, he always had a cup of tea in his hand and he's inspired so many coaches, players and people.

"It's such a shame, but we'll never forget him and his legacy definitely lives on."

United were second in FA Women's National League Southern Premier before the season was curtailed, while they reached the fourth round of the Vitality Women's FA Cup.

Matty Taylor won the Golden Boot for his 18 goals so far this season, six more than nearest challenger Mide Shodipo.

Meanwhile, Brandon Barker was awarded goal of the season for his solo effort at Crewe Alexandra last month, when he beat two men on the halfway line before finishing from the edge of the penalty area.

Roll of honour:

  • Supporters' player of the year: Sam Long
  • Players' player of the year: Sam Long
  • Young player of the year: Jack Stevens
  • Women's player of the year: Lauren Haynes
  • Goal of the season: Brandon Barker (v Crewe)
  • Golden Boot: Matty Taylor