After UC Santa Barbara got back on track with two wins last weekend at the Lobo Classic in Albuquerque, N.M., a pair of Gauchos took home weekly honors as David Opoku and Sam Hayden were named Big West Offensive and Defensive Players of the Week, respectively.

Opoku Picks Up Five Points in Two Matches at Lobo Classic

David Opoku helped UC Santa Barbara pick up its first two wins of the season last weekend at the Lobo Classic, netting him Big West Offensive Player of the Week honors.

The freshman forward's first career goal  sealed UCSB’s 2-0 win over Harvard, a squad ranked as high as #6 in the national polls.

Opoku then scored his second goal of the season two days later against Buffalo, a solid give and go score with teammate Sam Garza. Opoku then returned the favor later in the match when he assisted on Garza’s goal.

For his efforts, Opoku was named to the All-Tournament team.

Others nominated: Kevin Venegas, Cal State Fullerton; Lance Patterson, UC Davis

Hayden Shuts Door On Opposition at Lobo Classic

Sam Hayden came through with two big efforts to help UC Santa Barbara to two wins at the Lobo Classic last weekend, gaining him Big West Defensive Player of the Week accolades.

The senior goalkeeper started the tournament with a season-best five saves against national power Harvard, shutting out the Crimson in a 2-0 win.

Hayden then matched his season-high save output two days later against Buffalo, part of a 4-0 Gaucho victory.

Hayden was named the Lobo Classic Defensive MVP for his play between the pipes. In addition, Hayden's career shutout total is now 18 in only 30 career matches.

Others nominated: Patrick McLain, Cal Poly