The first round of the Normalization Committee Special Competition has come to an end with some thrilling games witnessed so far.

Footballmadeinghana.com picks the best XI who were outstanding at their various positions in first round.

In a 4-1-2-3 (4-3-3) system, Fatau Safiu, Joseph Esso and Kingsford Opoku lead the attack, while Zibo marshals the midfield with Issah Yakubu partnering Issaka Mohammed to play at the heart of defence.

Richard Arthur (GK) – Elmina Sharks: Seven clean sheets in seven games. What a goalkeeper he is! He is the reason why Elmina Sharks are yet to concede a single goal in the competition.

Samuel Appiah (Medeama): He has featured in all the four games for Medeama SC in the competitions. His name might not be on the various headlines but he has been consistent since he disposed Amos Korankye from the right back position.

Justice Anane (Aduana Stars): Very consistent since the start of the season. Always a threat to the opponent on the left side. He has featured in five out of the six games played in the first round

Issa Yakubu (Dreams FC): Commanding at the back for the Still Believe lad. Very solid and aggressive at the back. One of the best in the country so far. Despite the poor show of his side in the competition, he’s been impressive so far.

Issaka Mohammed (Elimina Sharks) : Well composed at the back. He is the leader at the back very strong in the air. One of the reasons his side are yet to concede a goal in the competition.

Simon Zibo ( Liberty Professional) : He has been the engine of the Liberty team. Very calm on the ball. You have to stop him if you want to beat Liberty Professional as said Hearts of Oak coach Kim Grant after his side 1-0 win over Liberty. He has featured in all but two of the games for his side.

Appiah McCarthy (Ashanti Gold ) : Why McCarthy and not James Akaminko, because he has something special in his game. His ability to locate his attackers from the long distance is what makes him special. His assist to Amos Addai in their win against Medeama says a lot about his game.

Jamal Haruna (WAFA): Three MVPs to his name including the game against Hearts of Oak. He is such a joy to watch. Very skilful and gifted with the ability to outwit his markers.

Abdul Fatawu Safiu (Asante Kotoko) : Stepped up when all hopes were lost. With the absence of Songne Yacouba, Abdul Fatawu Safiu has become the fans favourite in Kumasi. He is currently the top scorer of the competition with six goals to his name, despite playing out of his favorite position.

Kingsford Opoku (WAFA): One of the revelations of the competition. He has scored three goals for WAFA in the competitions. His performance means national U20 striker Daniel Lomotey has to warm the bench. He has featured in more than five games for his side.

Joseph Esso (Hearts of the Oak): Versatile player who can play everywhere in attack. Grabbed a stupendous strike against his former club in match day three. A threat to every opponent that comes up against his side. He has scored three goals in the competitions. He has featured in all the games so far.

Substitutes

Felix Annan ( Asante Kotoko)

Abdul Ganiyu Ismael ( Asante Kotoko)

Nsugunsi Effiong (Inter Allies)

Razak Cromwell (Dreams FC)

James Akaminko (Ashanti Gold)

Benjamin Tweneboah ( Elmina Sharks)