RICHMOND, Va. – Seldom offensive chances proved problematic and costly for the George Mason men's soccer team in its Atlantic 10 Conference opener.

The Patriots suffered a 2-0 loss to VCU on Saturday night at SportsBackers Stadium. Mason fired off just seven shots, including only one on goal, as the Patriots (2-6-1, 0-1-0 A-10) dropped their conference opener on the road.

“A tough way to start conference play,” George Mason head coach Greg Andrulis said. “The guys worked hard and had some good moments but we were unable to get the goal that would have changed the dynamic of the game. We need to get a result at home next Saturday to take a positive step forward in the conference.”

VCU (3-5-2, 1-0-0) struck first late in the first half. In the 36th minute, Jorge Herranz scored from eight yards out, slipping a shot inside the far post. It was the only goal the Rams needed.

Mason's lone shot on goal came less than 10 minutes in. In the ninth minute, Matt Tucker put a shot on frame but VCU's Pierre Gardan was there to make the save. The Patriots wouldn't force Gardan to make another stop the rest of the game. Mason finished with seven shots, but had just two after halftime. Zach Herstek led the team with three shots.

VCU, on the other hand, attempted 20 shots. The Rams put eight shots on goal, with Patriots goalkeeper Tomas Lapnas making six saves in his second career start. VCU picked up an insurance goal in the 79th minute when Luc Fatton found the back of the net.

Mason was shut out for the second time this season and lost its second straight match. The Patriots return to Fairfax to host Saint Joseph's at 7 p.m. on Saturday at George Mason Stadium in the Game of the Week for their A-10 home opener. All Mason students with a valid student ID will receive a free George Mason soccer scarf (while supplies last).