MSOC | Rudel Named WCC Player of the Week

Jake Rudel was named WCC Player of the Week for men's soccer following his four-goal weekend against San Jose State and Cal Poly.

SAN BRUNO, Calif. — For the second time already this season, a Gael has been named WCC Player of the Week for men's soccer. Saint Mary's forward Jake Rudel earned the distinction, as announced by the conference Monday, for his superb play over the weekend to help the Gaels pick up two wins and remain perfect at 5-0.

Rudel helped cement the win against San Jose State on Thursday with a goal in the 67th minute to widen Saint Mary's lead to four. The junior forward kicked into an even higher gear on Sunday as he notched his second career hat trick against Cal Poly in only 65 minutes of play. Rudel used his speed against the Mustangs to capitalize on two through balls and also rifled a shot into the Cal Poly goal seconds after forcing a turnover in their own box. The Fort Collins, Colo. native also drew a penalty on the box in the 16th minute that allowed Stephen Dougherty to score on a penalty kick.

Rudel is now tied for the team-lead in goals and points with Anders Engebretsen, who also has five goals and an assist this season. Engebretsen was also named WCC Player of the Week in the first week of the 2018 season after recording four goals and an assist in two games.

Saint Mary's currently leads the country alone in scoring offense at 3.80 goal per game and are top-10 in numerous other categories such as shots on goal, save percentage, shutout percentage, and assists. The Gaels have outscored their opponents 19-1 this year.

SMC's next contest comes against Sacramento State on Friday in the team's first road match of the season. More information for the upcoming week's games can be found on the Gaels' schedule page.

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