Romero Named Big 12 Newcomer of the Week

After scoring the game-winning goal in Nebraska's overtime win at Texas Tech, freshman Ari Romero has been named the Big 12 Newcomer of the Week, announced Tuesday by the league office. Romero is the fourth Husker to earn a weekly honor this season, joining senior Tara Macdonald (Defensive; Sept. 21), sophomore Jordan Jackson (Offensive; Sept. 21) and sophomore Morgan Marlborough (Offensive; Sept. 28).

A native of Surprise, Ariz., Romero attempted only one shot in Sunday's match against the Red Raiders, but made it count as her rebound header in the 92nd minute gave the Huskers a thrilling 5-4 road victory. NU led the match 4-2 in the final minutes before Texas Tech made an improbable comeback to force overtime. Just two minutes into the extra period, sophomore Morgan Marlborough took a free kick from 40 yards away that was saved by the goalkeeper and hit the post to give Romero the opportunity.

It was the first-career goal for Romero, who has started all 13 matches and been playing as a defender for most of the 2010 season.

In addition to Romero, Texas' Kristin Cummins (Offensive) and Baylor's Courtney Seelhorst (Defensive) earned the other two weekly awards from the Big 12 Conference.

Romero and the Huskers return home this week to face Iowa State and Missouri at the Nebraska Soccer Field. Friday's match against the Cyclones has been moved to 4:30 p.m., while Sunday's tilt against the Tigers remains set for 1 p.m.