Sept. 19, 2011

WOODLAND, Calif. --- Junior forward Devon Sandoval has been named Player of the Week by the Mountain Pacific Sports Federation (MPSF) following his efforts in New Mexico’s trip to Akron, Ohio.

It is New Mexico’s first MPSF Player of the Week award of the 2011 season, and the first of Sandoval’s career.

The Albuquerque native earned his second Offensive MVP award in two weeks, helping to fuel the Lobos to first place in the University of Akron Tournament. He notched two goals and an assist, playing a vital role in helping New Mexico to become the first team beat Akron in their own tournament since its inception in 2007.

Sandoval’s assist came late in the Lobos’ first game of the weekend, at 80:26 against the defending national champion and No. 4 Akron. Kyle Venter finished the goal to tie the game at 1-1 and hand Akron their first non-win in their home tournament. Prior to Friday evening, the Zips were 8-0-0 in the UA Tournament.

In New Mexico’s second game, he struck twice late against Syracuse, scoring his first goal in the 81st minute and then the game-winner in golden goal overtime during the 96th minute. The 2-1 victory was enough to secure first place for the Lobos on the weekend.

He currently leads the team with four goals, including two game winners, and two assists (10 points) this season. His first Offensive MVP award came last weekend in the Lobos’ home tournament, the 2011 TLC Plumbing, Heating and Cooling Invitational.

Three other Lobos were named to the All-Tournament team. Venter garnered his second Defensive MVP award after scoring his second straight game-tying goal against Akron on Friday, while Mathew Gibbons and Travis Campbell also made the 11-man list.

The Lobos (5-0-2) will close out non-conference play on Friday at the UNM Soccer Complex, playing host to Loyola Marymount in a “Stuff the Stadium” double-header event with the women’s team. Kick off is slated for 7:00 p.m.

Lobos Men's Soccer

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