Mo Mohamed Makes Third Straight Start For Portland Hearts of Pine
“I think he’s someone who has been champing at the bit to get his opportunity all season, and he’s had that the past three games. He’s shown that he deserves to keep his spot.”
Mo Mohamed is making the most of his opportunity with Portland Hearts of Pine.
Originally signed to a 25-day contract on May 23, the right back from Portland, Oregon, was extended for the rest of the season in mid-June after making three appearances.
He has now made three straight starts, looking more comfortable with each minute. In Saturday’s 1-0 win over Texoma FC, he had the most tackles (3), won 5/6 ground duels, and created one chance.
“I think he’s someone who has been champing at the bit to get his opportunity all season, and he’s had that the past three games,” Ollie Wright said. “He’s shown that he deserves to keep his spot.”
Mohamed’s primary competition is Colby Quinones, a Puerto Rican international who has dealt with injuries. Mikey Lopez can also play on the right, but he’s more at home in the midfield.
Head coach Bobby Murphy said that Mohamed’s athleticism is a differentiator.
“One thing that Mo’s got is that nobody gets behind him,” Murphy said. “He’s a good one-on-one defender. He’s a good athlete, great kid, competitive. I think he’s gotten better and better over this little stretch where he’s gotten games.”
Of course, there’s room for growth. Murphy noted that "there’s still some savviness he needs to pick up,” which should come with time.
Mohamed, 23, explained that he has already learned a lot from playing professional soccer on the East Coast.
“When you come to a new team, you’ve got to adapt, and I think I was able to adapt,” Mohamed said. “And now [I’m] getting used to the guys’ playing style, so it feels good to be able to help the team out there.”