MLS NEXT Pro (MLSNP) announced today that Austin FC II goalkeeper Damian Las was voted the league’s Goalkeeper of the Month for March/April. The 21-year-old Las registered 21 saves and two (2) clean sheets through the team’s first seven (7) matches.
“It means a lot to be awarded MLS NEXT Pro Goalkeeper of the Month,” said Las. “A lot of credit goes to my teammates. I’m grateful for all my coaches’ guidance and their belief in my development. This team has proven to be resilient and competitive and I’m happy to be a part of a great group of guys.”
Las currently has the lowest goals conceded average (0.71) of any goalkeeper in MLSNP to appear in at least five matches. In the box, Las has logged five (5) catches, five (5) clearances, and two (2) punchouts while playing the most minutes of any goalkeeper in MLSNP.
Las recorded his first clean sheet on April 12 against North Texas SC, making a personal season-high five (5) saves. He recorded his second clean sheet on April 16 against St Louis CITY2, coming up with four (4) stops to give the Verde & Black back-to-back victories. Las made the crucial penalty kick save on April 28 against MNUFC2 to give Austin its first shootout win of the season.
“We’re delighted for Damian to be awarded Goalkeeper of the Month,” said Austin FC Interim Sporting Director Sean Rubio. “He’s performed well throughout Austin FC II’s strong start to the season, and we’re excited to see him continue to grow.”
The Verde & Black are unbeaten to start the 2023 MLSNP season (four wins, three draws, no losses) and have the third-best goal differential (+7) in the league.
The award is voted on by representatives at each club in MLS NEXT Pro.
