BROOKVILLE, N.Y. — George Mason University fell to Long Island University 9-6 in a non-conference matchup on Sunday. Despite scoring four goals in the second quarter, George Mason was unable to maintain momentum as LIU pulled away with a strong second half.

LIU initially took the lead with a goal by Ava Hernandez at 7:21, assisted by Selia Lyons. However, George Mason responded decisively when Giselle Torain converted a free position shot at 4:33 to equalize. The quarter concluded with the score tied at 1-1.

George Mason took control in the second quarter with an impressive offensive display. Kate Anders scored early at 14:33, assisted by Riley Ellis, setting the tone for the visitors. Anders continued her strong performance with another goal at 9:00, capitalizing on a free position attempt. Kaitlyn Bestick added to the lead with a goal at 5:09, and Anders completed her hat trick with a third goal at 1:30, again assisted by Ellis. The Sharks managed a goal at 8:00, but the Green & Gold maintained their advantage. The quarter ended with George Mason leading 5-2.

In the third quarter, George Mason struggled to maintain their lead as the Sharks mounted a comeback. Despite a strong start with Kaitlyn Bestick securing the opening draw control, turnovers and penalties hindered the Green & Gold's momentum. LIU capitalized with three goals, narrowing the gap and eventually overtaking George Mason. Regan Bestick made key saves to keep the Patriots in contention, but LIU's persistent attacks proved decisive. The quarter concluded with George Mason trailing, as LIU led 6-5.

In the fourth quarter, George Mason managed to break through with a man-up goal at 3:08, as Kate Anders successfully converted a free position shot for her 4th goal of the game, narrowing the deficit to 9-6. Despite a late draw control win by Isabella Munz, the Patriots were unable to capitalize further, facing a turnover shortly after. The Sharks secured a 9-6 victory as the clock ran out.

PATRIOT POINTS

• Kate Anders - 4 goals, 4 draw controls, 2 ground balls
• Giselle Torain - 1 goal, 1 caused turnover
• Kaitlyn Bestick - 1 goal, 3 draw controls, 1 ground ball
• Regan Bestick - 9 saves

UP NEXT
Looking ahead, George Mason will face Radford University at The St. James in Springfield, Va., on Friday, Feb. 13. The game is set to begin at 2 p.m.