FAIRFIELD, Conn. -- The Fairfield University men's soccer team certainly gained national attention by capturing the St. John's Nike Tournament championship last weekend. The two victories pushed the Stags into the national rankings for the first time this year, as the team debuted at number 17 in the National Soccer Coaches Association of America (NSCAA) national poll.

Head Coach Carl Rees entered the campaign in the national poll, receiving votes in the pre-season ranking. But a shutout of the University at Buffalo in the season opener followed by a 2-1 decision over 17th-ranked St. John's University allowed the Stags to switch places with the Big East foe. Fairfield moved into the number 17 slot in the September 4 rankings, while St. John's fell out of the top 25 poll and into the receiving votes category.

Things will not be any easier for Coach Rees and his lads as they return to action on September 7. Fairfield will head north for a matchup with ACC foe Boston College for a 7 pm match up. The team does not open the home portion of its schedule until September 15 when it hosts Ivy League and in-state opponent Yale University at Lessing Field. Game time slated for 7 pm against the Bulldogs.