DES MOINES, Iowa -- Redshirt sophomore goalkeeper Luke Anderson has been tabbed as the Missouri Valley Conference's Defensive Player of the Week following a string of stingy play between the posts.
 
Anderson has been a fixture in net as the Bulldogs have recorded three-straight clean sheets and three-straight victories, most recently with a 1-0 win over Bradley in the team's conference opener.
 
 "We are delighted for Luke to be recognized as he turned in some great performances this last week," said Drake head coach Gareth Smith. "He has made crucial saves at key moments in these past three games, especially the PK save against Bradley on Saturday. This recognition is well deserved."
 
The Wayzata, Minn., native recorded three saves against the Braves, none bigger than his penalty kick rejection in the 73^rd minute.
 
Bradley's Gerit Wintermeyer, who co-led the MVC in points a season ago, stepped to the spot and challenged Anderson low and to the keeper's right, but Anderson left his line and just the right moment and punched the shot out of harm's way before being swarmed by celebrating teammates.
 
The save helped Anderson earn his third shutout in seven career starts, good for a .429 shutouts per game average that ranks first in the MVC this season.
 
This is Anderson's first MVC weekly honor of his career.
 
The Bulldogs will aim for their fourth-consecutive shutout at Valparaiso on Wednesday, Sept. 25 at 7:30 p.m.