Villyan Bijev and Josh Cohen nominated for USL Fans’ Goal and Save of the Month

Over the weekend, the United Soccer League (USL) announced that midfielder Villyan Bijev was up for USL Fans’ Choice Goal of the Month award for August. Bijev was nominated for his goal in the 76th minute versus Fresno FC on August 4, which turned out to be the game winner and an important three points at home.

While Wan Kuzain from the Swope Park Rangers was voted top goal with 30 percent of the vote, Bijev respectfully finished fifth with 8 percent. Regardless of the outcome, what a goal it was.

On the other side of the ball, Republic FC Josh Cohen was also nominated for USL Fans’ Choice Save of the Month for August for his amazing stoppage-time save to preserve a 2-1 road victory at Reno on August 25.

With respect to Charleston Batter keeper Joe Kuzminsky (who earned Save of the Month with 44 percent of the vote), I would have voted Cohen over Kuzminsky given that his save came in stoppage time, while Kuzminsky’s came in the 48th minute.

But more than that, I just think Cohen’s save was better. Judge for yourself.

Cohen did win USL Save of the Week for the save and finished second (30 percent of the vote) in the Save of the Month.

As fans are well aware, the steady play from Bijev and Cohen have been key to the Quails success this season. Along with forward Cameron Iwasa, who with his 13th goal Saturday set the Republic single-season record for goals, they have been Manager Simon Elliott’s best three this season.