By Robert McKinney, Assistant Athletics Director, Communications

SALEM, Ore. -- Willamette University defender Abdul Ali (So., D, West Linn, OR/West Linn HS) has been selected Northwest Conference Men's Soccer Defensive Player of the Week for his efforts as the Bearcats defeated nearby rival Linfield University on Wednesday, March 17 and Sunday, March 21. The Bearcats improved to 5-0 on the season and to 5-0 in the NWC.

Ali led Willamette's defense, as the Bearcats shut out the Wildcats in both games. In addition, he scored a pair of header goals on corner kicks in Willamette's 7-0 triumph on Wednesday. On Sunday, in WU's 1-0 victory, he helped the Bearcats limit Linfield to six total shots, including only one shot in the second half.

"Abdul Ali has been an anchor for our back line this entire spring season and is very deserving of this great accolade," Willamette Head Men's Soccer Coach Jared Rust said. "Earning two shutouts and scoring two goals this week was a great performance."

Willamette has allowed just one goal in its first five games. The team owns a 0.20 goals against average.

The Bearcats are scheduled to play at George Fox University in an NWC game on Wednesday, March 24. Game time is set for 7:30 p.m.