Sept. 8, 2003

ABILENE, Texas - For the first time ever, the Hardin-Simmons men's soccer program has earned a spot in the National Soccer Coaches Association of America regional rankings and James Burton and Ryan Shaughnessy have been named American Southwest Conference West Division offensive and defensive players of the week.

James Burton a junior forward for the Cowboys, scored both goals in the 2-1 road upset of fifth-ranked Wheaton College (Ill.) on Saturday ), netting the first unassisted 1:23 into the match and following with his second 13 minutes later. The goals gave him 28 for his career.

Sophomore goalkeeper Ryan Shaughnessy turned away 12 shots during the week, including seven against Wheaton, during 135 minutes in goal to help Hardin-Simmons to a pair of weekend victories. Playing a full match in goal, Shaughnessy had two highlight reel saves in the final 10 minutes vs. Wheaton to preserve the 2-1 win. He played one half against St. John's (Minn.) to earn a half shutout in the 1-0 win.

The Cowboys moved into the No. 10 slot in the regional rankings with its upset of Wheaton on Saturday. For its reward, HSU gets to play Trinity, the new No. 1 team in the nation this week on Friday in the ASC-SCAC challenge in Richardson.