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Jonathan Bornstein was named to both Top Drawer Soccer and College Soccer News’ national te

As halftime approached on Sunday against UNLV, it appeared as though Jonathan Bornstein would once again be the only Bruin to record a goal. However, five minutes before the end of the half, sophomore Kamani Hill helped contribute to the Bruins’ effort with a goal of his own. But even then, Bornstein remained a part of the picture, recording the assist. His job was not yet done. Just twenty minutes later, Hill returned the favor for Bornstein, setting up his second goal of the game and his fourth in three games – all of which were shutout victories. “Last year I had one goal and one assist, but this year has been totally different,” said Bornstein. In fact, after the first six games, the senior midfielder leads the team in both scoring and goals with nine points and four goals. “It’s definitely a confidence booster to score two goals and have an assist in one game. “After a 3-0 win at home, I think the team is on a high right now and we’re really confident and playing well,” said the Bruins’ top scorer. Not only did Bornstein feel a momentum shift in their direction before heading into Pac-10 play this weekend, but the rest of the team, including head coach Jorge Salcedo, is also optimistic about their home games this weekend. “I feel like we’re gearing up and getting ready for our first conference game against Cal,” said Salcedo. The Bears are undefeated and ranked as high as number three in various polls around the country, while the Bruins peak at number six. “If we can get two wins this weekend against Cal and Stanford, then we’re off to a great start and hopefully our fourth straight Pac-10 Championship,” said Salcedo.

ON A ROLL: With his recent streak in non-conference play, Bornstein is also receiving recognition from several national media outlets. Bornstein was named to the Top Drawer Soccer and the College Soccer News’ national teams for the week of Sept. 19-25. The Bruins played the UNLV Rebels on the Sept. 25 but had no other games during that week. “I wasn’t surprised by his performance,” said Salcedo, “This year he has a bit of a different role of having to play at midfield, but I knew he could do some of the things he’s doing now.” It was the senior’s first time receiving national recognition in his four-year tenure at UCLA. “My dad called me and he found out before I even found out and it was just a huge excitement to get those recognitions,” said Bornstein. “It’s good to know that other people are noticing also.”

INJURY UPDATE: Junior Kiel McClung will have to watch at least a few more games from the sidelines as he waits for his ankle to heal. The Bruin defender severely sprained his ankle in the second week of this year’s preseason play. Salcedo is optimistic for the return of his veteran defender, but understands that patience is the only way to handle the situation. “Kiel will hopefully be back soon,” said Salcedo, “He needs to get through a full week of intense training and we’ll be able to gauge whether he’s ready to play.”

TWENTY YEAR ANNIVERSARY: Prior to this weekend’s Stanford game, there will be an alumni game played on the North Athletic Field celebrating the 20th anniversary of UCLA’s first NCAA men’s soccer title. The 1985 NCAA Championship team will then be honored in a special halftime presentation.