Sept. 12, 2010

Box Score

The George Mason men's soccer team bounced back from its first loss of the season on Sunday afternoon, scoring twice in the first half and putting up a solid defensive effort against Villanova, beating the Wildcats, 2-0. Mason, which has played three matches on the road this season and one on neutral ground, is now 3-1-0 on the year. Villanova fell to 1-2-1.

The Patriots were clearly the aggressor in the first half with a 17-4 advantage in shots. Those attempts produced a pair of goals as A.J. Sheta scored in the 38th minute and Ernesto Marquez added a goal in the 42nd minute. Sheta's goal was assisted by Victor Freeman and Anthony Han while Marquez' score was assisted by Han.

"Our guys bounced back in fine fashion with our best half of soccer this year," said Mason head coach Greg Andrulis. "Our offensive pressure was significant, and lead to two terrific goals. Our depth was tested, playing two games in less than 40 hours, and we met the challenge with all of our offensive points coming off the bench. All-in-all a positive performance for us on the day."

The second half saw Villanova find a bit of a rhythm as the Wildcats put six shots on goal but Dustin Butcher was there to make every save as Mason picked up its second shutout of the season. The Patriots finished the game with a 21-15 advantage in shots and a 10-7 edge in shots on goal. Mason had six corner kicks to Villanova's four while the Patriots were called for 13 fouls to Villanova's 11. The Wildcats were given three yellow cards while Freeman picked up the lone yellow for the Patriots.

Mason will return to action on Saturday night when they play their regular-season home opener, hosting Richmond at 7 p.m.