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As New York Red Bulls II conclude their first season, the team managed to end on an overall positive note while falling in the second round of USL playoffs to eventual champions Rochester Rhinos. The team fielded an astounding 38 players in its inaugural season, and while not everyone can come out of the gate spitting hot, NYRBII managed to come pretty close, unearthing hidden talents, giving draft picks a chance to play, and allowing Homegrown talent to develop. Now presenting your candidates for NYRBII MVP.
Derrick Etienne
The academy took the USL by storm in the early part of the season. Despite only playing half season, before heading off to his freshman year at Virginia, Etienne managed to score 3 goals and assist on another 3 in only 14 games. One of the most exciting players to come out of the academy in recent years, Etienne’s emergence showed everyone right off the bat what NYRBII could provide.
Mike Da Fonte
At 24 Mike Da Fonte was one of the experienced players on a very young NYRBII. Upon returning to his native NY after a few years in Europe, Da Fonte provided consistency and solid defense at the back of an ever-changing lineup. The converted center back played a team-high 2003 minutes, featuring in all but 3 games for the team.
Konrad Plewa
Often partnering alongside Da Fonte, and impressing many (give link to training with first team), was this Homegrown defender out of Seton Hall. In 23 games, Plewa managed to play 1663 minutes, assisting on 1 goal and scoring 3
Leo Stolz
The two-time Hermann Trophy winner sat atop the midfield for the majority of NYRBII’s campaign, dishing out creativity and quality passing from the #10 spot. In 22 games Stolz scored 4 goals while assisting on 2 more.
Marius Obekop
Marius Obekop could be dancing atop the front three of the New York Red Bulls had NYRBII existed two years ago. And so when given the opportunity for regular playing time this year, Obekop grabbed the chance with both hands. In only 20 games, Obekop led the team in scoring, notching 6 while adding 3 assists onto that tally.
Who do you think should be named NYRBII MVP? Vote and let us know. Voting closes on December 10th at 12:00 pm.