ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – University of New Mexico sophomore forward Niko Hansen was named the Conference USA Offensive Player of the Week the league office announced Monday. Hansen scored a goal in each of UNM’s two wins last week, and each goal proved to be a game-winner.
He opened the Lobos’ 6-1 win over West Virginia last Wednesday by unleashing a shot just 16 seconds into the match that a Mountaineer defender used his hand to block. A red card was issued, and UNM capitalized on the penalty kick for an early 1-0 lead. After a defensive miscue allowed WVU to tie the game, Hansen received a through ball and converted to regain the lead for the Lobos. The sophomore finished the match with a game-high eight shots, including four on goal — both totals higher than the entire WVU team.
Hansen continued his strong play against FIU Saturday night as the Lobos earned their first C-USA win of the season. New Mexico again scored in the first minute, and again Hansen factored in the play as a he received a pass at the edge of the box. Just 43 seconds in, Hansen’s first touch knocked the ball just behind the defender, and his second touch beat the keeper for a 1-0 UNM lead. The tally held up to be the game-clincher after UNM delivered a clean sheet. He once again led the game with five shots, two on net, both of which again outpaced the entire opposition. The Sacramento, Calif., native finished the week with 13 shots, six of which were on frame.
This is the first honor of Hansen’s career, and the third for a Lobo this season. Oniel Fisher was the C-USA Offensive Player of the Week on Sept. 2, and Josh Goss earned the same honor the following week.