AJ ALBERS Recognized As Part of Strong Returning UNH Soccer Defense

The UNH Wildcats Are Ranked # 4 Nationally Heading Into The Fall 2014 Season.

Men’s DI Soccer: Top Returning Defenses

By Top Drawer Soccer
May 13,2014

AJ Albers, (Eagan, MN. native)and Sophomore at University of New Hampshire playing Division I Men's Soccer is recognized in the top returning defense for the UNH Wildcats. 

The idea of teams building championship contenders from the back is as old as the game itself. If the key to a championship-winning side is a stout defense, then this group of Division I’s best defenses from 2013 is well on its way to something special in 2014. All but one brings back the nucleus of a nationally ranked defense in 2014, which should mean big things for these teams next season. Here are the five best men’s defenses from Division I ranks last season and a breakdown of what they bring back next season.

1. Missouri State - 0.41 goals against average
2. Georgetown - 0.46 goals against average
3. Army - 0.52 goals against average

4. New Hampshire - 0.58 goals against average

Key losses: None
Key returners: D Lukas Goerigk, D Andrew Chaput, D A.J. Albers, GK Travis Worra, D Will Szostkiewicz, DErik Martel

The Wildcats were about as stout as it comes defensively last season, but a poor away record and a heart-wrenching season-ending loss to Hartford in penalty kicks in the America East tourney semifinals did in their season. While the attack was hardly toothless, the defense was the primary driver to the team’s 12-5 record, and the entire unit returns for more in 2014. Not only is the line talented, but it’s five deep with players who started at least eight games last season, and all of them were either sophomores or freshmen last season. Keeper Travis Worra will be the only senior on the back line, but in fitting fashion, his backup - Giovani Reillo - started six games last year as a freshman. Look out for the  UNH Wildcats. 

5. Cornell - 0.60 goals against average

Looking forward to an awesome Fall 2014 season.
Congratulations to AJ and his defense teammates!