Sept. 6, 2006

VILLANOVA, Pa. - Villanova junior goalkeeper Jason Friel (Dublin, Pa.) was named player of the week by the Philadelphia Soccer Seven on Sept. 5. Friel did not allow a goal in two of the Wildcats' three outings last week.

Friel was at his best in a 0-0 tie at Rhode Island on Sept. 1. He established a new career high with 13 saves, including several of the spectacular variety in the contest played in Kingston, R.I. Two days earlier he provided 61 minutes of shutout soccer before giving way to John Ward in a 2-1 Soccer Seven win at Saint Joseph's.

In five games thus far in 2006, Friel has posted an 0.80 goals against average.

Friel and the Wildcats return to action on Friday in the Big East Conference opener at Providence. Kickoff is set for 3:00 p.m.