UST’s Turner Has Command Performance
ATLANTA – After guiding St. Thomas to a pair of Top 4 victories, Tommies senior midfielder Sam Turner has earned MCLA Division II Commanding Performance of the Week powered by Under Armour for the period ending April 8.
In St. Thomas’ rivalry game against No. 4 St. John’s on Friday night, Turner made a difference all over the field in the Tommies’ 11-10 victory on the road. He finished the night with a goal and an assist.
On Sunday, St. Thomas faced off against undefeated and No. 1 ranked North Dakota State at a neutral location and again it was the Burnsville, Minn., product who led the way.
Turner matched a career-high with four goals against the stubborn Bison defense that had been yielding less than six goals a game all season in the decisive 12-8 victory.
For the weekend, Turner had five goals and a dime against two of the top teams in the country.
“Sam has been a great leader for our team all year long,” said St. Thomas coach Brian Gross. “On the field, he's one of the catalysts of our offense, and his play this weekend was a big reason why we came away with wins against two really tough opponents.
“But beyond that, Sam brings a lot of energy and enthusiasm to the team. Whether it's a game, practice or a conditioning session, he's always pushing himself and his teammates to become better players. That's exactly what you hope to get from a senior captain.”
For his efforts in earning the Commanding Performance of the Week powered by Under Armour, Turner will receive a new Under Armour Command Head – a $100 value. Under Armour is the proud sponsor of the MCLA.
Under Armour Honor Roll
Mikey Fifield, Sr. – Appalachian State
The Mountaineers went 1-1 against MCLA D-I competition this week thanks to a combined 49 saves (71.0 sv%) from the veteran keeper.
Matt Galligan, Fr. – Stonehill
The Skyhawks rookie netminder made 14 saves and allowed just two goals (87.6 sv%) in a win against Framingham State, while also drilling an 85-yard man-down goalie goal.
Michael Henry, Sr. – Cal State Fullerton
The Titans tripped up No. 15 San Diego, 7-4, thanks to a 20-save (83.3%) performance from the goaltender.
Jack Southron, Fr. – Sierra Nevada
In a big WCLL showdown with No. 14 UC Davis, the rookie attackman struck for six goals while setting up three others in an Eagles’ rout.
Matt Weersing, Sr. – UT-Dallas
In a 3-0 week for the Comets, their FOGO won 33-of-44 draws (75.0%) to lock up the top seed out of the LSA-II Central.