After falling 4-0 to one of the West’s best in North Texas back on July 3, the Twos have had some time to regroup and recoup some of their young talent that had been called up into action in light of a number of first-team absences. Now, they are looking forward and looking for a spark that starts the boys on positive results and more minutes for those MNUFC2 starters that had been supporting the first team over the past several weeks. And, hopefully, the home-field advantage can bring an energizing atmosphere that only adds fuel to their fire when they host Austin FC II on Thursday at 6:00 p.m. at National Sports Center Stadium in Blaine.
While MNUFC2 and Austin FC II both reside in the MLS NEXT Pro Western Conference, the history between the two sides consists of only two previous matchups, both ending in 1-1 draws in the 2023 season. As they meet for the first time in 2024, the Twos are hoping to welcome back their mainstay players, while continuing to give young, talented players from the Academy meaningful minutes on the MLS NEXT Pro-level. Academy members like defenders Dom Mawing, Tamer Ibsais, and Gio Cruz seem to be likely candidates to earn more minutes on the pitch, as they have in recent weeks.
Further development isn’t just an Academy initiative, as the Twos’ attack has continued to see positive performances and growth. MNUFC2 standouts like Kage Romanshyn Jr. and Loïc Mesanvi continue to prove themselves as viable playmakers in the attacking third. Also factoring into the attacking equation is recent MLS NEXT All-Star selection, U17 forward/winger Darius Randell, who recently became the third academy-level player in club history to receive the honor. With the flashes of greatness he has shown in his work with the Academy and at the Next Pro-level this season, the 16-year-old has shown he is more than deserving of the honor.
In terms of defense, the Twos will hope to show the kind of stinginess they displayed in the first half against North Texas, holding their opponents to one goal over the first 45 minutes. Also factoring into the Black and Blue’s ability to hold Austin’s attack at bay will be who is guarding the net, as goalkeeper Alec Smir remains with the first team in a reserve role for starting Loons’ keeper Dayne St. Clair while veteran Clint Irwin recovers from injury. That likely means the Twos will once again have recent signing Francesco Montali stepping in. The young talent is likely hungry to prove himself after a rough second half in his Twos’ debut against North Texas.
Don’t miss the action in Blaine this Thursday, July 18 at 6:00 p.m. CT at the National Sports Center Stadium, or catch the live stream for this match on MLSNEXTPro.com.
