RENO, Nev. — The all-time leading scorer in USL history took home USL’s Player of the Month Award on Thursday.

Reno 1868 FC striker Dane Kelly, who has scored in the past five USL matches, took home the top league honor for May.

Kelly exploded in May notching eight total goals in a historic stretch that featured back-to-back hat tricks, a first in the USL.

“I have been working very hard for the past month or so,” Kelly said. “My teammates have been tremendous and have confidence in me.

“I feel pretty good about this award.”

Kelly scored again in Reno’s 3-2 win over Rio Grande Valley FC on Wednesday bringing his total to 11 goals this season and retaking his spot as the league leader in goals scored.  

His enormous contribution has helped Reno 1868 FC remain unbeaten since mid-April in USL play.

Reno has climbed to sixth in the USL’s Western Conference standings.   

Head coach Ian Russell said Kelly’s pace and creativity separates the seasoned veteran from other strikers.

“With Dane, he's been doing it throughout his whole career,” Russell said. “(Goal scoring) is just a natural instinct he has.

“He can also create his own goals. There are a lot of (strikers) that need service. And although getting service from a teammate is nice, he's not a one-dimensional No. 9.”

Kelly’s award on Wednesday marked the third time he was honored by the USL. Kelly was named Player of the Week in Week 7 and Week 9.

Reno 1868 FC will host rival Sacramento Republic FC at 7:30 p.m. on Saturday at Greater Nevada Field.  

The first 1,868 fans through the rotunda entrance on Saturday will receive a free hat. Tickets for that match and future matches can be purchased at reno1868fc.com/tickets.