FOLLOWING Harbour View’s brilliant surge to the top of the Red Stripe Premier League, it is no surprise that head coach Harold Thomas has been voted China Harbour Engineering Company (CHEC) Star Coach of the Round.

Thomas, who saw his team recover from a poor start in which they only garnered one point from their first three games, went on a winning run amassing 22 points from a possible 24 to end the round with 23 points and on top.

The quiet but astute coach, was rewarded with $75,000, winning the prize after being nominated by the match commissioners six times.

“I am thankful and grateful for it even though I consider it an award for the team,” Thomas told the Jamaica Observer.

Since the conclusion of the first round, Thomas has led Harbour View to two more wins and the ‘Stars of the East’ have now won seven consecutive games, and nine of the last 10 matches.

With 29 points, they have established a six-point lead atop the tables and Thomas is hoping they can continue that impressive run.

Said Thomas: “The aim is to continue to do it, however, the reality is, injuries have crept in among other things so we will definitely try and maintain that momentum but challenges are there.”

The man who is still recovering emotionally from a nasty car accident in Portmore at the start of the league, has high praises for sponsors China Harbour for the concept.

“It is a good idea. One only wish that we can find a way for the players who sacrifice day in day out, but the reward is welcomed and I hope other companies will follow the example of China Harbour and join to reward many other stalwarts behind the scenes,” said Thomas.

Thomas’ admiration for two of the games fundamentals — respect and discipline — made him a clear choice among the selectors.

His disciplinary record for the round was unblemished.

The CHEC Star Coach of the Round for the 2013-2014 RSPL is chosen based on win percentage, disciplinary record, co-operation with match officials, goal difference, deportment and overall behaviour.