ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – The University of New Mexico men’s soccer team has its eyes set firmly on the upcoming season after a successful spring exhibition run. The Lobos utilized four playing dates this spring, coming away undefeated, and most importantly growing together as a cohesive unit.
“I think we really accomplished our goal of getting every player significant minutes against quality opposition,” said head coach Jeremy Fishbein. “The guys needed that, wanted that, and their performances were excellent. We accomplished a great deal and saw tremendous growth individually and collectively.”
NCAA Division I soccer programs are allotted five competition dates during their spring season. The Lobos looked to make the most of these opportunities, sometimes playing two matches on a given date, giving players as many minutes as possible. They also put a premium on tough competition, playing three dates away from home in order to play the best teams possible.
“I was really happy with the spring as a whole. It’s always challenging and intense. The reward for training is games, but you only get five match dates. We were able to utilize four of our five match dates. The fifth date, our second trip to Denver, got snowed out.”
In the end, the Lobos played seven matches over four dates and finished 6-0-1. The spring started with a pair of victories in Las Vegas, Nevada against Utah Valley and UNLV, with the Lobos scoring five goals combined. The following weekend, the Lobos travelled to Denver, Colorado for a pair of matches. The Lobos earned a morning 2-1 victory over Division II powerhouse Colorado School of Mines, followed by a marquee matchup versus Creighton. The Lobos came out with a dominating 3-0 win.
The third playing date took place in Taos, New Mexico against Air Force (2-2 draw) and Fort Lewis (2-1 win). Due to inclement weather on their last scheduled date, the spring finale would turn out to be a 1-0 victory at home over Colorado-Colorado Springs.
“The performances were very promising. You have to be careful reading into spring results. We played quality teams, and against them we were very good. From a confidence stand point, we gained a lot. It’s a little bit of fool’s gold, because the pressure is different in the spring and everybody is happy, but in the fall, things change. It has to be about the team, and that was a big emphasis. Hopefully this translates into quality performances in the fall.”
Growth was key for the Lobos during the spring, and it came in a variety of ways. Next year’s senior class was put in a position to develop as team leaders, while younger players were able to step into new roles and show their potential and ability. Coach Fishbein was pleased with what he saw from his players across the board.
“Our seniors have really developed and matured. They took ownership and responsibility. And our young guys made very significant gains. The difference between last August and now is night and day. We also brought in three players at semester, and all three have made our team better. We have exciting pieces and this is going to be a fun group to coach.”
Now that the spring has concluded, all eyes are on the fall season. The team now has a chance to recharge and players can work individually on their game. Many will stick around over the summer to help with camps, but the main focus is preparing for the preseason, now just a few months away.
“I’m really optimistic and proud of this group. It’s going to be an exciting fall.”
Men’s Soccer Logs Successful Spring Run
