Aug. 6, 2008

LAS VEGAS - UNLV was picked to finish third in the 2008 Mountain Pacific Sports Federation preseason men's soccer coaches' poll, which was released on Wednesday.

The Rebels received 15 votes to place third, in a tie with San Jose State. New Mexico was just narrowly selected as the preseason favorites with 24 points and four first place votes, while Denver was picked second with 22 points (two first place). Sacramento State was in fifth with eight points, while Air Force was selected sixth with six points.

The Rebels, under third-year head coach Mario Sanchez, return nine starters and almost every single offensive threat. Key among the returnees are senior forward Lamar Neagle and sophomore forward Daniel Cruz. Neagle finished third in the MPSF last year with 20 points (nine goals, two assists), while Cruz was named the MPSF Newcomer of the Year after posting four goals and four assists for 12 points. Another returning all-conference performer is junior defender Andrew Friel, a second-team selection.

UNLV opens its season on Saturday, Aug. 30 against Jacksonville as it hosts the UNLV Rebel Classic in Las Vegas, and will begin MPSF play on Oct. 3 at Air Force.

2008 Mountain Pacific Sports Federation Preseason Men's Soccer Coaches' Poll

Place   Team (1st place votes)  Votes1.  New Mexico (4)      242.  Denver (2)      223.  UNLV            15    San Jose State      155.  Sacramento State    86.  Air Force       6