Five goals and a star role in reversing the Western Sydney Wanderers' fortunes has seen Brendon Santalab crowned the A-League player of the month for March.
The striker netted his first A-League hat trick against the Melbourne City and a brace against the Wellington Phoenix last month, when the Wanderers picked up 10 points from a possible 12.
According to Professional Footballers Australia, the 34-year-old beat Perth Glory playmaker Diego Castro and Sydney FC star Milos Ninkovic to the player-voted gong.
"Like all players it means a lot to me to be recognised by my peers," Santalab said.
"Hopefully there will be more celebrations to come this season."
Santalab joins James Troisi, Diego Castro, Andrew Nabbout, Ninkovic and dual winner Marco Rojas as recipients of the prize this season.
