So its all over, time to pick over the bones (Ill have a look at the predictions competition tomorrow). So how about a marks out of ten thread for all the candidates based on today’s result.
(mine below the fold – add yours, dispute mine etc.)
Dark horse Jim Nicholson
10 out of 10
Broadly considered in a last place battle and at risk to Maginness but in the end he came through as 2nd elected and increased his share of the vote.
Boy Wonder Steven Agnew
10 out of 10
I suspect most, including the Green party, would have been happy with them doubling their vote and getting 10k. He over trebled the vote from last time and boosted the actual vote – something no other party managed
Jim ‘The Voice’ Allister
10 out of 10
Never a serious threat to win but he confounded almost everyone by polling 66K and forcing the DUP into real difficulties. A credible marker for the future.
Alban ‘close shave’ Maguinness
7 out of 10
Never really in with a shout but he was there to the last and kept what the SDLP had after a long period of decline
Bairbre ‘topper’ de Brún
6 out of 10
While poll-topping is a very good result for the optics it was only possible through Unionist vote spread. She dropped her vote in % and real terms.
Ian ‘Vegetable’ Parsley
5 out of 10
Despite Alliance wanting to compare this election to 1999, I compare it with Gilliland in 2004 and they didnt manage any real movement other than back.
‘Desperate’ Diana Dodds
3 out of 10
From poll toppers to chasing the last seat in a mere five years. Vote shredded and now facing real competition on two fronts.