Colorado Rapids 2 midfielder Oliver Larraz has been named as the MLS NEXT Pro Player of Matchday 17 for his exceptional performance against Real Monarchs.
In the Rapids 2's 4-1 victory, Larraz stole the show by scoring a goal and providing an assist.
Larraz scored just before halftime when Rapids 2 launched a counterattack after creating turnover near midfield. Sensing a goal-scoring opportunity, Larraz sprinted towards the opposition's box, received a pass from Yosuke Hanya, and skillfully curled the ball into the net with his right foot for his fifth goal of the season.
Larraz's impact continued in the second half when in the 60th minute he created a turnover in the midfield, drove the ball into the opponent's territory, and delivered an outside-the-boot pass to Remi Cabral, who slotted the ball away for Rapids 2's third goal of the night.
With this assist, Larraz increased his tally to six for the season, placing him tied for second in the league for assists provided.
With this victory, Rapids 2 maintained their position as Western Conference leaders with 43 points.
Larraz, a homegrown player who signed a contract in 2021, has been a standout performer throughout the 2023 season for Erik Bushey’s squad. In 17 matches, he has contributed six goals and six assists, leading the Rapids 2 in minutes played (1404), assists (6), key passes (30), and shots on target (23).
Larraz has emerged as an integral component of Rapids 2's success this season, and his exceptional form will be vital for the remainder of the 2023 campaign.
After their Matchday 17 victory, Rapids 2 will briefly shift their focus to the 2023 MLS NEXT Pro Invitational where they will face off against the SG Hoffenheim U23's squad on July 18th.
Following that, Rapids 2 will host a highly-anticipated match featuring two Western Conference powerhouses when Austin FC II visits the University of Denver Stadium on July 23rd.
You can catch all the MLS NEXT Pro action on MLS Season Pass on Apple TV.
