Ghanaian midfielder Amass Amankona thrilled fans on attendance at the FC Tucson’s Kino Sports Complex when he climbed off the Real Salt Lake bench to dazzle in their 1-0 loss against MLS champions Portland Timbers on Thursday.
Amankona, 20, was introduced at the same time by Lake with Ghana defender Jerry Akaminko - who is on trials at the club.
After replacing Javier Morales and Lake down to a Lucas Melano 1st minute goal, tricky pocket-size number 10 created a host chances and came close to leveling the scoring in the 79th minute but was unlucky.
Real Salt Lake signed Kumasi-born from American university side Dayton where he was on a Presidential scholarship.
He got the eye of Lake officials with his commendable performance for Dayton where he notched 13 goals from midfield and highlighted his true qualities as the best assist giver in his ranks by producing 5 assists.
Amankona was one of the top players ranked by Top Drawer Soccer in 2015, rounding out the season ranked 23rd. But he also received accolades beyond simply his play, as he was named to the NSCAA 2015 Scholar All-America first team.
By El Akyereko
Follow the writer on Twitter: @AkyerekOfficial