University of Memphis Tiger men's soccer fan experience. The virtual guide contains photos, videos, bios and information about the Memphis men's soccer team.
Issue link: https://www.e-digitaleditions.com/i/37309
ANDREAS GUENTNER, WHO TIED PARKER DUNCAN FOR THE TEAM LEAD WITH FOUR GOALS LAST SEASON, WILL FIND BE COUNTED ON TO FIND THE BACK OF THE NET EARLY AND OFTEN IN 2010. The Tigers return a solid core at the back of the pitch heading into the 2010 season. Although coach Richie Grant will have to replace team captain and 2009 All-C-USA second team pick Rick Alleman, junior Thomas Shannon seems poised to fill Alleman’s leadership role and possibly his role as a central defender. The native of Broken Arrow, Okla., has started 29 games in two years for the U of M. At the end of last season, Shannon proved his worth as Memphis’ penalty kick specialist. He went 3-for-3 with three goals in the final four games of the season including the decisive game-winner in the final game of the season against South Carolina. Also returning in the back four will be senior Rory O’Connor, who manned the other center back position in 2009. O’Connor has notched 23 starts in two years after transferring from Lambuth. Andreas Guentner also returns as a potential impact player in the back four. Guentner could see time at defender, as well as midfielder, in 2010 after being named to the All-C-USA third team as a freshman. Jordan Johnson, Hugo Mondragon and Chris Porter also return as experienced players in the back four. In addition to a deep core of returnees, Memphis will welcome freshmen Will Garcia and Maxim Van Dyck, a product of Blankenberge, Belgium. Tennessee product Tanner Thompson, as well as redshirt freshman Adam Thornton and Gardner-Webb transfer Dennis Kennetz, Jr., will also provide depth in the back four. 16 2010 Memphis Men’s Soccer Experience RORY O’CONNOR WILL BE COUNTED ON TO PROVIDE LEADERSHIP FOR A YOUNG 2010 SQUAD. DEFENDERS