Oct. 6, 2003

LEXINGTON, Ky. – University of Kentucky freshman Riley O’Neill was named Mid-American Conference player of the week, Monday, for his performances against Appalachian State and Bowling Green State this past weekend.

In UK’s 2-1 victory over Appalachian State, O’Neill scored the first goal of his collegiate career when he netted a header in the 37th minute of the game. The Campbell River, British Columbia native, scored the game-winner against the Mountaineers in the 64th minute when recorded his second goal of the game off an assist from junior transfer Christopher Lefferts.

On Sunday, O’Neill scored his third goal of the season and recorded an assist in Kentucky’s 3-0 win over Mid-American Conference foe, Bowling Green State.

“Riley looked sharp this weekend and was a big factor in both games,” head coach Ian Collins said. “He put himself in good positions all weekend and it paid off for him. He is starting to understand the demands of top quality collegiate soccer and I look for continued improvement from him and continued determination to get in good scoring positions and be dangerous around the box”

O’Neill is the second Kentucky player to receive Player of the Week honors in the MAC this season. Junior Jamal Shteiwi received the honor two weeks ago.

Also, the Wildcats made a return to the National Soccer Coaches Association of America Great Lakes top-10 after a one week hiatus. The Cats re-entered the poll at the No. 9 spot ahead of Indiana University (3-3-4) at No. 10.