SAN MATEO, Calif. -- The West Coast Conference named Portland Pilots goalkeeper George Tasouris the WCC Defensive Player of the Week for his excellent performance this past Friday against the UCLA Bruins. It is the first time that Tasouris has earned such an honor this season.

Tasouris had two saves and earned his third shutout of the season this past Friday as the Pilots took down the UCLA Bruins 1-0 in Los Angeles. One of those saves came in the 89th minute, preventing UCLA from finding the equalizer. It is the first time the Pilots have ever defeated the Bruins on the road and the first regular-season victory Portland has ever earned over UCLA.

The Cyprus native has had an impressive start to the 2021 season, ranking among the best in the conference at his position. He is currently tied for first in the WCC in shutouts (3), tied for second in total saves (19) and third in save percentage (.864) and goals-against average (0.60). 

Tasouris joined the Pilots this season as a grad transfer from Grand Canyon University where he enjoyed a highly successful three-year career. He earned All-WAC honors all three years that he played for the Lopes, earning WAC Defensive Player of the Year honors last season. In his first year, Tasouris rankedsecond  in the nation in save percentage and tops in the WAC (.860) and was named to the All-WAC Second Team and Freshman Team. That year, he was named the WAC Tournament MVP as well. He was earned All-WAC Honorable Mention the following year and was All-WAC First Team his final year with GCU. His past performance helped him be named to the MAC Hermann Trophy Watch List for 2021 season.

The Pilots are 3-2 on the season so far, with a match against the Sacramento State Hornets later tonight. Kickoff for tonight's match at Merlo Field is set for 7 p.m. Check PortlandPilots.com for live stat and video options as well as ticket options.