CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va. - The George Mason men's soccer team
outshot Virginia in the final game of preseason competition, but a Cavalier
goal in the 29th minute was enough for the home squad to seal the
win, 1-0, Friday night at Klockner Stadium.
"We are disappointed the result," stated head coach Greg
Andrulis. "Virginia is a talented, well-coached team that was able to
capitalize on our error. We weren't sharp enough in the final third, but the
positive is we created ample opportunities to score and just came up short. Now
it's time to focus on our regular season opener next Friday in Boston."
Derek Markheim and Ryan Garcia led the Patriots with four
shots apiece as the Green and Gold combined for 14 total shots. Verneri Valimaa
added two shots, while Julio Arjona, Leo Stolz, Laurent Newsome and A.J. Sheta
each had one. Virginia combined for 12 shots. Dustin Butcher and Mark Bixler split the time in the net with
Butcher earning the start and picking up two saves.
The first half saw few scoring chances for either team as a
combined five shots were taken before the lone goal of the contest. In the 29th
minute, Ari Dimas scored off a cross pass from Will Bates from 18-yards out for
the eventual game-winner. Mason took nine shots in the second half to Virginia's
five, but was unable to convert an attempt in the final 45 minutes.
Mason returns to action opening regular season play on Friday,
August 26 at Boston College at 4 p.m. and then hosts the D.C. College Cup,
September 1st and 3rd at George Mason Stadium.
The 2011 Fall Sports
Season Pass, which includes admission into men's soccer, women's soccer and
women's volleyball home contests, is currently on sale for only $30. Fans can
purchase the season pass online at GoMason.com or by calling the Mason Athletic
Ticket Office at 703-993-3270.
