After a stellar performance that helped lead the Loons to a much-needed 2-1 win over the Quakes this past Saturday in San Jose, Bongokuhle Hlongwane has earned himself a spot in the starting XI for the MLS Team of the Matchday for Matchday 30.

Bongi notched the first of his two goals in a play that was truly a collaborative effort by the Loons. A strong tackle from Hassani Dotson in midfield sent the ball bouncing into the attacking third. Robin Lod reached the ball first and quickly slotted a beautiful through ball to a hard-charging Hlongwane in the box, where the forward finished the job to put the boys up 1-0 early on.

After the Quakes brought the match level in the second half, it was Bongi to the rescue once again. The South African secured his brace in the 63rd minute off a long Joseph Rosales throw-in that found its way into the middle of the box. In the ensuing chaos, both sides desperately tried to gain an advantage, but persistence paid off as Hlongwane made good on his third attempt to break the stalemate, putting the Loons up for good and earning them three crucial points to keep their playoff push alive.

Nice work, Bongi… keep those good vibes comin’!

MLS Team of the Matchday for Matchday no. 30:

F: Rafael Navarro (COL), Luis Suárez (MIA), Bongokuhle Hlongwane (MIN)

M: Diego Rossi (CLB), Ajani Fortune (ATL), Pedro Vite (VAN), Facundo Torres (ORL)

D: Luca Orellano (CIN), Sergio Busquets (MIA), Juan Mosquera (POR)

GK: Andre Blake (PHI)

Coach: Phil Neville (POR)

Bench: Gavin Beavers (RSL), Franco Escobar (HOU), DeJuan Jones (CLB), Marcel Hartel (STL), Evander (POR), Ryan Gauld (VAN), Mikael Uhre (PHI), Dominique Badji (DC), Ezequiel Ponce (HOU))