FAIRFAX, Va. – In the season opener for both teams Friday night, the George Mason women's soccer team suffered a 2-0 setback to Loyola at George Mason Stadium.
The Patriots outshot the Greyhounds, 12-5, but could not overcome a first half goal to even the score. Mason saw a couple chances midway through the first half as a Liz Agiato corner was headed out by a Loyola defender and Emma Starr received the shot, but her attempt went high. Just a few minutes later, Erin Mitchell's cross intended to Megan Benitez was blocked by Loyola in front of the goal. Rosy Hayes put Loyola on the scoreboard in the 33rd minute finishing a rebound off a feed from the far side to carry a 1-0 lead into halftime.
Jessica Van Dyke extended Loyola's lead to 2-0 completing a double assist from Charlotte Miller and Hayes in the 82nd minute.
Mitchell led the Patriots with four shots, including one on goal as Brenna Connell followed with three shots. The Patriots finished with 12 shots, putting three on goal, and six corner kicks.
The Patriots return to action on Sunday at 7 p.m. hosting former conference foe William & Mary.
