Junior Missouri State men's soccer player Gerard Barbero was named Missouri Valley Conference Defensive Player of the Week, the league office announced today.

Barbero has been stellar in his move to the backline this season.  He scored his fifth goal of the season on Saturday night, the game-winner in the 85th minute.  It was his third game-winning goal of the season, the best on the team.  He added an assist on Tuesday on the Eric Martin goal in the 65th minute.  His 13 points on the season are tied for the team lead.

He has also been a key cog in the Missouri State defense that has pitched three consecutive shutouts.  On the week, he helped the defense allow just three shots on goal in both the match against Memphis and the win over Bradley. 

Missouri State heads to No. 9 Creighton on Wednesday for a 7:00 p.m. match.  The Bears will return home for the regular season finale on Saturday, November 6, the "Living Our Legacy" game presented by Verizon.  The match will feature active military and veterans recognition ceremonies.  The event will help raise money for the Ozarks Honor Flight.  The first 400 fans to the 7:00 p.m. match will receive a free t-shirt.