Through six MLS NEXT Pro Matchdays, we have seen some remarkable performances from academy players who are shuffling up the depth chart in their young professional careers and making for fun stories in the American soccer scene.
The Rising Star of Matchday 6 honor goes to Columbus Crew 2's 17-year-old midfielder Cole Mrowka.
Things were not going to plan for Crew 2 in the early phase of Sunday's match against Inter Miami II. The defending champions trailed 2-0 in the second half, staring at the possibility of two consecutive losses, and desperately in need of someone to put on the cape and change the game. Mrowka did just that when he came on in the 71st minute.
It took Mrowka less than a minute to break the deadlock for Crew 2, and it served as the start of a heroic three-goal comeback victory.
What's more, he opened his professional account in style with a left-footed curled shot from distance.
Mrowka also gets credit for supplying a secondary assist on Crew 2's equalizer.
He fought through traffic in the box to find Mataeo Bunbury who cut it in for Noah Fuson, which was key in swinging the momentum in Crew 2's favor.
Mrowka and Crew 2 are back in action on Friday, May 5 when they host MLS NEXT Pro expansion side Huntsville City FC. Be sure to take in the action on MLS Season Pass on Apple TV.
