Matchweek 13 of the 2024 MLS NEXT Pro season was headlined by a statement road win by FC Cincinnati 2, a Man of the Match performance from Jonathan Bolanos, and a fourth goal of the season for 16-year-old Chase Adams.
Here's a look at the top-performing player, team, and Rising Star of Matchweek 13:
MLS NEXT Pro Team of Matchweek 13: FC Cincinnati 2
The best way to rebound from a winning streak ending is by starting another one and that is what FC Cincinnati 2 began last Thursday in Chester, Pennsylvania.
Tyrone Marshall's squad earned a 2-0 road victory over East-leading Philadelphia Union II, which was their second head-to-head result in the last six weeks. The result moved them to third place in the East standings.
After a goal-less first half, a pair of FCC2 substitutes were able to make an impact. Kenji Mboma Dem scored twice in a 19 minute span, finishing off a pair of Moises Tablante assists.
Goalkeeper Paul Walters needed to make just one save as FCC2 rebounded nicely from a Matchweek 12 loss to Inter Miami II.
A two-match road trip concludes on Saturday for FC Cincinnati 2, with a trip to Carolina Core FC.
MLS NEXT Pro Player of Matchweek 13: Jonathan Bolanos (Huntsville City FC)
For the first time in 2024, Huntsville City FC registered back-to-back wins with Jonathan Bolanos playing a key role in Saturday's home triumph over Crown Legacy FC.
Bolanos scored once and registered two assists as Huntsville City FC defeated Crown Legacy 4-2 at Joe Davis Stadium.
The 26-year-old set up Forster Ajago for a pair of first-half goals, giving the hosts a 2-0 advantage.
Despite Crown Legacy FC fighting back to tie the match 2-2, Bolanos' tally in the 74th minute would prove to be the winning goal. His right-footed strike to cap off a fast break made it 3-2 to Huntsville City FC.
Huntsville would add a fourth and final goal to pad their eventual home win.
Bolanos now has four goals and five assists this season for Huntsville City FC, continuing to play a leading role in the attacking third.
MLS NEXT Pro Rising Star of Matchweek 13: Chase Adams (Columbus Crew 2)
2024 has been a good year to date for 16-year-old Chase Adams.
Adams scored his fourth goal of the season last Thursday as Columbus Crew 2 defeated New England Revolution II won 3-1 on home soil. It marked his second-straight appearance with a goal as Crew 2, earning Matchweek 13 Rising Star honors.
After Jayden Da opened the scoring in the first half, Adams doubled Crew 2's lead in the early stages of the second half. Da's through ball assist was slotted home by Adams for a 2-0 Crew 2 lead.
The hosts would eventually hang on for a crucial three points while Adams won two duels, completed one dribble attempt, and scored with his only shot on target.
Crew 2 sits seventh in the East following the victory.
