SPRINGFIELD, Va. — George Mason (1-2, 0-0) secured a decisive 12-7 victory over Radford (0-1, 0-0) on Friday at The St. James. George Mason's offensive effort was highlighted by a strong first quarter, where it scored six goals and converted three power-play opportunities.
The game commenced with the Patriots taking early control as
Delaney Stup scored the first goal at 14:12. George Mason continued its momentum with
Addison Bechler netting another goal at the 10:00 mark, assisted by
Kate Anders.
Emily Mowbray extended the lead to 3-0 with a man-up goal at 07:49, again assisted by Anders.
Radford responded with a goal at 05:49, but the Patriots quickly regained their rhythm. Anders, who was instrumental throughout the game, scored twice, including a man-up goal at 05:04, assisted by
Riley Ellis, and another at 02:50.
Matye Riley also contributed to the scoring at 04:04, assisted by Anders. The quarter ended with the Green & Gold leading 6-1.
George Mason maintained its defensive stance in the second quarter, effectively hindering the Highlanders' offense. Despite multiple attempts, including a key shot by Stup at 6:18 and another by Bechler at 00:45, George Mason was unable to extend its lead, with Radford's goalkeeper stopping several shots. Radford managed to score a goal at 4:22, reducing the deficit. The quarter concluded with the Green & Gold holding a 6-2 lead.
The Patriots capitalized on a strong start to the third quarter, with
Kaitlyn Bestick scoring at 13:33, assisted by Anders. Following this, Anders continued her outstanding play, netting two more goals, including a man-up score at 12:00, assisted by Ellis. Despite turnovers and penalties, the Patriots maintained control, with
Olivia Perry securing multiple draw controls. The Highlanders managed to score twice, but George Mason's offensive drive, capped by Anders' final goal at 1:54, ensured a solid quarter finish. Anders' performance was particularly noteworthy as she tied her career-high with 5 goals during the game. The quarter ended with the Patriots leading 10-4.
The Green & Gold opened the fourth quarter with a goal by Stup at 13:33, extending its lead. Bestick added another goal with an assist from
Matye Riley at 8:34, maintaining momentum for the home team. Despite the Highlanders' attempts to close the gap, including two goals by Cheney, George Mason's defense, highlighted by
Regan Bestick's saves, preserved its advantage.
Radford managed to score a late goal with only seconds remaining, but the Patriots secured a 12-7 victory.
PATRIOT POINTS
UP NEXT
In their next game, George Mason heads to Youngstown, Ohio, to face Youngstown State University. The matchup is set for Sunday, Feb. 15 at noon.
