Houchin, Whitaker honored by Top Drawer Soccer

AUBURN, Ala. – Sarah Houchin and Hailey Whitaker were recognized by Top Drawer Soccer for their performances in Saturday's 3-0 win vs. South Alabama. Houchin was named to the Team of the Week, while Whitaker was an honorable mention honoree.
 
It marks the fourth straight week and fifth time this spring an Auburn player has earned Top Drawer Soccer Team of the Week recognition, including the second time for both Houchin and Whitaker.
 
"Sarah and Hailey played key roles on the defensive and offensive side of the ball in our win last weekend," head coach Karen Hoppa said. "We're glad to see them both recognized by Top Drawer this week."
 
After being honored during Senior Day festivities before the game Saturday, Houchin played a key role in holding the nation's highest scoring offense off the scoreboard. The Coppell, Texas, native made her 76th consecutive start on Auburn's back line and led the unit to it's eighth shutout of the season, including its fifth in seven contests this spring. The Tigers held South Alabama scoreless for just the third time in 21 matches this season.
 
Along with her effort on the defensive side, Houchin also contributed on the other end of the field as she assisted on the team's first goal in the 10th minute. It marked Houchin's second assist and sixth point of the season, matching her career high in the latter category.
 
Whitaker, who was named the Southeastern Conference Offensive Player of the Week Monday, matched career bests with two assists and four points in the win against the Jaguars. The Birmingham, Alabama, native assisted on the first two goals of the contest, marking her second career game with multiple assists, and scored the Tigers' third and final goal.
 
Whitaker corralled a cross from Mallory Mooney in the box and battled the goalkeeper for possession before winning the ball and flicking it into the back of the net. It was Whitaker's second straight game with a goal after scoring the game winner at Alabama on Mar. 27. It also marks the second straight week she has been recognized by Top Drawer Soccer.