LEBANON, Tenn. -- Pau Gelabert earns MSC Defensive Player of the Week, while
Wesley Mendoza claims MSC Offensive Player of the Week as Cumberland celebrates a sweep of the conference's weekly awards, conference officials announced Monday.
Gelabert played all 90 minutes in both matches, recording four saves against Faulkner before helping the Phoenix secure a 2-1 victory over Campbellsville to clinch the Mid-South Conference regular-season title.
Against Faulkner Gelabert made four saves, including a penalty-kick stop in the sixth minute, to keep Cumberland in the match. The Phoenix faced 13 shots, with six on target, as Gelabert worked to limit the Eagles' scoring opportunities.
The junior followed up that performance with another full 90 minutes in Cumberland's regular-season finale against Campbellsville.
After conceding an early goal, the Phoenix responded with two unanswered goals to earn the 2-1 victory and secure the conference regular-season championship.
Gelabert and the Cumberland defense limited Campbellsville to just eight shots and one shot on goal throughout the match, helping the Phoenix close out the regular season with a crucial conference win.
The recognition marks another accomplishment for Gelabert, who has been a key presence in goal for the Phoenix throughout the season. With the regular-season title secured, Gelabert and Cumberland will look to carry their momentum into postseason play.
For the Mid-South Conference Offensive Player of the Week award, Mendoza earned the honor after playing a key role in the Phoenix's regular-season title run, including a goal in the final regular-season match against Campbellsville.
The Nashville native delivered a clutch performance on senior night, breaking a 1-1 tie in the 49th minute with a goal off a slick pass from Luis Cerejo to lift Cumberland to a 2-1 home victory. Mendoza finished the match with four shots, including three on target, as the Phoenix clinched the conference title.
Mendoza wrapped up the regular season with seven goals and three assists for 17 total points.
The senior forward has been a vital part of Cumberland's attack throughout the season. With the regular-season championship secured, Mendoza and the Phoenix will look to carry that momentum into postseason play.
