August 24, 1998
GREENVILLE, SC -- The Furman men's soccer team is ranked 16th in the nation in Soccer America's preseason poll.
Furman, who was ranked as high as 19th a year ago have earned their first preseason national ranking under Doug Allison. Expectations are high for the Paladins in 1998 as a highly touted freshman class, led by Parade All-American Matt Goldsmith, joins an strong core returning from the 1997 squad. The Paladins return seven starters, including all-south region selections Ronnie Pascale and Daniel Alvarez.
"We are thrilled to be recognized early in the season as one of the nation's best," said Allison. "But the true test will come once the season begins. Our goal is to improve that ranking and earn a bid to the NCAA Tournament."
Defending national champion UCLA tops the poll, while 1996 national champion Indiana, St. Louis, Virginia, and Maryland round out the top five. Southern Conference member UNC Greensboro is ranked 20th.
1998 Soccer America Preseason Poll