SPARTANBURG, S.C. – Furman forward Josiah Baker has been named the Southern Conference men’s soccer player of the week for all competition from Aug. 26-28 after posting a pair of goals on the opening weekend of play. The selection is made by the league office.

Baker scored a dramatic game-winner in Friday’s 1-0 upset of No. 23 FIU at the Aaron Olitsky Memorial Classic in Mt. Pleasant, South Carolina, scoring off of a set piece with just 1:16 left to hand the Paladins the season-opening win.

Two days later, the sophomore from Lawrenceville, Georgia, scored a first-half goal in Furman’s 1-1 draw with Navy that gave the Paladins the tournament title. Baker was named MVP of the tournament.

With two goals in as many games, Baker has already reached his total from last season and doubled his career tally.

Furman opens the home portion of its schedule Saturday when it welcomes Aaron Olitsky Memorial Classic host College of Charleston for a 7 p.m. bout. The match can be viewed live and for free on the SoCon Digital Network.

Also nominated: John Lucchesi (ETSU), Conner Antley (Mercer), Quin Lema (UNCG) and Nicky Watson (Wofford).

2016 SoCon Men’s Soccer Players of the Week
Aug. 30 Josiah Baker, So., F, Furman

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