<P> In sports where playoffs are decided by series rather than individual games, such as professional basketball and baseball, MVP awards are commonly given for the series, and in ice hockey's NHL, for performance in the entire playoffs . </P> <P> In football, the "man of the match" award typically goes to a player on the winning side . Players who score a hat - trick, or goalkeepers who keep a clean sheet under pressure often get the award . Hat - trick scorers usually receive the match ball whether or not they are officially named man of the match . </P> <P> The man of the match is often chosen by a television commentator or a sponsor . However, not all competitions have an official man of the match award, so sometimes accolades are given by websites or newspapers instead . In the Premier League, for example, a player receives a small black and gold trophy for their man of the match performance . </P> <P> In Australian rules football, the player of the game is often referred to as having been the "best on ground" (or "BOG"). Media outlets provide immediate, unofficial recognition that is largely honorary, often on a 5--4--3--2--1 or 3--2--1 voting basis . Players may receive a Tissot watch as an award for their "best on ground" performance . Officially, the AFL recognises the player of the game as being the player awarded the maximum three votes by umpires in the Brownlow Medal count at season's end . Exceptions are made during the season for certain reserved games such as the Western Derby, The ANZAC Day clash, QClash, and Showdown, where medallions are officially rewarded in presentations following the conclusion of the match . On the day of the AFL Grand Final, a player will be awarded the Norm Smith Medal as being the best on ground voted by an independent panel of Australian rules football experts . </P>

Who chooses man of the match in football