Sept. 8, 2014

COLUMBIA, S.C. – Two Gamecocks pulled in awards on Monday, as sophomore goalkeeper Marco Velez garnered the Conference USA Defensive Player of the Week nod and senior defender Mahamoudou Kaba took a spot on the College Soccer News National Team of the Week.

Velez posted nine saves in his two wins, including six in the double-overtime victory over No. 25/18 Clemson on Tuesday. Twice he rejected back-to-back shots, including two in a row that came from five yards away. The only goal Velez has allowed in 2014 is on a penalty kick to the Tigers.

Kaba picked up the game-winning goal on Sunday night against Mercer while helping limit the Bears’ offensive attack to eight shots and only three on goal. On numerous occasions, he singlehandedly shut down Mercer’s attackers during the contest.

For Velez, it’s his second C-USA Defensive Player of the Week win, joining his Oct. 28, 2013 award. Kaba, the C-USA Preseason Defensive Player of the Year, takes his first weekly award.

The Gamecocks continue their season on Friday, hosting UNC Wilmington at 7 p.m. at Stone Stadium.