Thorns FC Keeper Karina LeBlanc Named Player of the Week

The efforts of Portland Thorns FC goalkeeper Karina LeBlanc were recognized this week as the NWSL media voted her Player of the Week.

LeBlanc made several spectacular saves in last Saturday's 0-0 draw against Sky Blue FC, preserving a road result when the rest of the Thorns were underachieving.

Full press release below:

THORNS FC GOALKEEPER KARINA LEBLANC NAMED NWSL PLAYER OF THE WEEK
Season-high seven saves helped Portland earn a road draw on Saturday

PORTLAND, Ore. - Portland Thorns FC goalkeeper Karina LeBlanc was named the National Women's Soccer League (NWSL) Player of the Week by the media for Week 11 of the 2013 NWSL season, it was announced today.

LeBlanc, 33, made a season-high seven saves, including two in second-half stoppage time on Saturday helping preserve a scoreless draw against league-leading Sky Blue FC. The Canadian international, who has recorded six shutouts and a league-best 0.64 goals-against average, is the first Thorns FC player to be named the NWSL Player of the Week this year.

Ranking second in the league in saves (45), LeBlanc's quick reactions in second-half stoppage time helped Portland earn a point on the road, keeping the team's undefeated road record (4-0-2) intact and maintaining a tie on points (26) for first place with Sky Blue FC.

The NWSL Player of the Week is selected each week of the regular season by a selection of journalists that cover the league on a consistent basis.

Thorns FC return to action Sunday, June 30, on the road against FC Kansas City at Verizon Wireless Field in Overland Park, Kan.; kickoff is 1:10 p.m. (Pacific). A live video web stream will be available at www.portlandthornsfc.com.