MATT KREMKAU - EMPIRE OF SOCCER

by ANTHONY J. MERCED

NYRB II 2016 USL playoff hero Konrad Plewa has signed with St. Louis FC, joining the Preki rebuild project for the 2017 season.

“Konrad provides another steady defensive presence with not only good defensive habits but he is also very comfortable on the ball and making good decisions,” said St. Louis FC general manager Jeremy Alumbaugh. “His playoff experience and role in the championship run last season adds to our strong defensive core.”

Plewa was a fan favorite and a NYRB II original. He played for New York Red Bull II during their first two seasons in the USL. The Polish player was a Red Bull academy product and attended Seton Hall University from 2011 to 2015. During his time in New York, Plewa made 23 appearances and scored three goals. One of his goals was a dramatic penalty shootout game-winner against the Rochester Rhinos on the Eastern Conference semi-final.

Plewa became an emotional favorite after suffering a stroke in the middle of the 2016 season. The scare kept Plewa’s time with the team limited but he was able to return in time for the playoffs where his emotions were on display during New York’s championship run.

For St. Louis, they are getting a player that is very comfortable on the back line as well as in midfield. Judging by the team’s interest, Plewa will likely be fingered as a starting option under Preki.