Stickler Named Tournament MVP

LAS VEGAS (Sept. 5, 1999) — The University of Kentucky men’ssoccer team topped host UNLV 1-0 in Sundayschampionship match at the UNLV Rebel Classic, asthe Cats battled Las Vegas near-100-degreetemperatures to claim the tournament title.

“Im happy with the way our guys fought today,” UK Coach Ian Collins said.”The heat was really draining, but they stuck it out and refused to fold.”

UK’s Michael Stickler netted the game-winner off a Lee Baker pass at 7:55for the match’s lone goal and his third score in two matches. For his efforts,Stickler was named the tournament’s Most Valuable Player.

Wildcat keeper Brian O’Leary stopped seven Rebel shots to post his firstshutout of the season, and was honored as the Classics Best DefensivePlayer.

With the win, UK improves to 2-0 in 1999, its best start since 1995, whileUNLV falls to 1-2.

The Cats take the field again on Sunday, Sept. 12, when they return to theUK Soccer Complex to face UNC Asheville in the home opener.

UNLV Rebel Classic Las Vegas, Nev. Championship Match         1       2       FUK      1       0       1UNLV    0       0       0Goals: UK- Michael Stickler (Lee Baker) 7:55