WASHINGTON, D.C. — George Mason University (4-3) secured a 16-12 victory over American University (1-5) on Friday. The Patriots' offensive effort was highlighted by its three power-play goals, which contributed significantly to the win.
George Mason initiated the first quarter with a strong offensive display, as
Kate Anders scored the opening goal at 13:18. This goal marked a significant milestone for Anders, as she registered her 100th point as a Patriot with this achievement. The momentum continued with Anders adding another goal at 10:07.
Emily Mowbray contributed to the scoring with a goal at 8:43, assisted by
Riley Ellis, extending the Green & Gold's lead.
Delaney Stup further increased the advantage with two goals, one of which was a man-up free position goal at 4:59. American managed to score at 3:40, but the Patriots responded quickly with Anders securing her third goal of the quarter at 2:56. The quarter concluded with George Mason leading 6-1.
George Mason started the second quarter with a turnover caused by
Gabby Rizzio, leading to a ground ball pickup by
Kaitlyn Bestick, who then scored on a free position shot at 13:29. Following a draw control by
Isabella Munz, George Mason faced a turnover but quickly regained control, resulting in a man-up goal by
Matye Riley assisted by
Riley Ellis at 4:46. A free position goal by Anders at 3:33 extended their lead.
Despite the Patriots' strong offensive performance, the Eagles responded with 2 goals, but the quarter ended with a 9-4 score in favor of George Mason. The game remained competitive as both teams added three goals each during the quarter.
In the third quarter, the Green & Gold seized control with a series of critical plays. Following an early goal by American,
Kaitlyn Bestick responded for George Mason with a free position shot at 6:20. George Mason then gained momentum as Stup, Anders, and Bestick each found the back of the net, with Bestick's second goal assisted by
Riley Ellis at 1:26.
Matye Riley capped the quarter with a man-up goal from a free position shot at 0:35.
In the fourth quarter, George Mason's Anders scored at 11:50 with a free position shot, maintaining its lead. This goal was part of a remarkable performance by Anders, who posted a new career high of six goals in the game.
Addison Bechler followed with another goal at 8:52, further extending the margin. Despite a series of turnovers and a strong response from American, the Patriots' defense, highlighted by key saves from
Regan Bestick, held firm. American attempted a rally, but George Mason's earlier scoring proved decisive. The game concluded with George Mason securing a 16-12 victory.
PATRIOT POINTS
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Looking ahead, the Patriots will face La Salle University on Saturday, March 7. The matchup is set for noon in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
