Dec. 9, 2005
Recap | Final Stats | Photo Gallery
Clemson vs. New Mexico
College Cup Semifinals
SAS Soccer Complex
Cary, NC
December 9, 2005
Postgame Notes
With the 2-1 win in the College Cup Semifinals over Clemson, New Mexico advances to the national title game for the first time in school history. The Lobos are going for the second national title in any sport on Sunday against Maryland. Junior Lars Loeseth is an All-American member of the Lobo ski team, the only other UNM squad to win a national championship (2004).
Freshman Brandon Barklage scored in the 20th minute of the game, giving UNM its first lead in regulation since a 1-0 win over Denver on Nov. 11. UNM had played in four, consecutive overtime games and had not led in any of those contests.
Senior Hermann Trophy finalist Jeff Rowland did not take a shot in the game, It was the first time he was held to no shots in the 2005 season.
Senior Lance Watson scored an assist on the Lobos’ first goal. It was his team-leading ninth assist of the year, a career-high.
UNM was held to a season-low, tying eight shots in the game.
The Lobos improved to 17-1-1 in 2005 when scoring first.
Prior to the game, three Lobos were earned NSCAA All-American status. Senior Jeff Rowland was named to the 1st Team for the second year in a row. Senior Lance Watson and junior Andrew Boyens both made the 3rd Team. It is the first time in school history New Mexico has had more than one All-American in school history. Rowland was also named one of three finalist for the MAC Hermann Trophy, the award given to the top college soccer player.