MERCED, Calif. – Three University of California, Merced men's soccer players have earned United Soccer Coaches NAIA All-West Region honors, as announced by the United Soccer Coaches on Tuesday. Garnering recognition is Daniel Borges, Xavier Barajas, and Michael De La Cruz.
The Bobcats three selections are tied for the most in program history. All three Bobcats earn the honor for the first time in their career.
Daniel Borges started 14 of the 19 games he played in and led the Bobcats with 13 goals, including four game-winners. He had four multi-goal games, most notably a brace against nationally-ranked Westcliff University and a hat trick against University of Antelope Valley. He also recorded five assists and put a team-best 25 of his 43 shots on target on the year. A month ago, Borges was named the California Pacific Conference Newcomer of the Year and named to the All-Cal Pac First Team.
Barajas started all 20 games for the Bobcats this season as a defensive midfielder and helped anchor the team to eight shutouts. Along with proving to be one of the best defenders on the West Coast, Barajas tallied 13 points with four goals and five assists. The Turlock, Calif., native put together a three-match point-scoring streak in the middle of the season. Barajas logged 1,528 minutes on the year while playing the full 90 minutes in eight matches, including in all four postseason games. The junior also earned All-Cal Pac First Team honors this season and was a 2X Cal Pac Defensive Player of the Week.
De La Cruz, a four-year starting outside back for the Bobcats, started 18 games for UC Merced this year and played 90 minutes in five games. He also played 60+ minutes in five other games. With his efforts, the Bobcats limited opponents to just 8.8 shots and 1.05 goals per game. From September 17-November 9, the Bobcats allowed just four total goals and recorded six shutouts in a ten-game stretch. De La Cruz adds this accolade to his trophy case that already includes two All-Cal Pac First Team awards and an All-Cal Pac Second Team honor.
The Bobcats All-West Region trio led UC Merced to a 13-4-3 record and a NAIA National Championship Opening Round win.
