FROM STAFF REPORTS

Two University of Montevallo men’s soccer players were awarded spots on the preseason All-Peach Belt Conference team, which was announced Aug. 23.

Senior Phil Jackson, a Lincolnshire, England native, and sophomore Gary O’Neill, a Dublin, Ireland native, were both named to the 12-member squad.

O’Neill adds to his trophy case after being named second team All-Peach Belt Conference last season. Jackson also adds to his previous awards after being named to the Peach Belt Conference all-tournament team last season.

Jackson saw limited time last season due to injuries, but made a huge impact when he was on the field. Despite playing in just 12 matches, he scored four game-winning goals and finished third on the team in points. Jackson had six goals and five assists.

O’Neill was a standout as a freshman in central defense. O’Neill was a key part of a defense that was tied for second in the Peach Belt Conference with only 19 goals allowed in 22 games, and was third in the league with a 0.83 goals against average. O’Neill also scored a goal, which happened to be a game-winner, and assisted on two other goals.

The Falcons, who are ranked No. 19 in the National Soccer Coaches Association of America’s Division II preseason poll, continue their preseason slate Aug. 24 with the Purple vs. Gold game on Varsity Field at 7 p.m. The Falcons final preseason tune-up will be Aug. 27 at 2 p.m. as they battle the University of Mobile on Varsity Field.

Montevallo opens the regular season Sept. 1 at 5 p.m. on the road at Lees-McRae.