FAIRFAX, Va. — George Mason (5-4, 1-1) narrowly fell to Saint Joseph's (3-5, 2-0) with a final score of 16–15 on Saturday. Despite George Mason's comeback attempt, Saint Joseph's maintained a slender lead to secure the victory.
The first quarter commenced with George Mason facing a quick challenge as Saint Joseph's scored the opening goal. However, the Patriots responded when
Giselle Torain scored at 12:53, leveling the score temporarily. Saint Joseph's then managed to pull ahead with a series of successful plays, including a goal from Alexa Capozzoli at 11:29. Despite this,
Matye Riley found the net at 7:54, assisted by Torain, and later,
Kate Anders scored with 1:24 remaining, narrowing the gap. The quarter ended with the Hawks holding a 7–4 lead.
The Green & Gold displayed resilience in the second quarter with a pivotal goal by
Kaitlyn Bestick at 9:34 to respond to an early Hawks score, maintaining competitive pressure. Despite a series of Saint Joseph's goals, Riley capitalized on a player-up advantage with a free position goal at 2:00, narrowing the gap.
Addison Bechler added another critical goal at the 30-second mark, keeping George Mason in contention as the quarter ended with Saint Joseph's leading 12–7.
George Mason seized control in the third quarter with a strong start. Anders capitalized on a player-up opportunity with a free-position goal at 11:53. Moments later, Bestick added to the momentum with a goal at 8:19. Riley extended the scoring run with a goal assisted by
Riley Ellis at 7:39, consolidating George Mason's position.
Emily Mowbray got on the board with player-up goal at 6:35, assisted by Bechler. Despite a goal from Saint Joseph's Kate Fuhrman, the Patriots maintained their focus and controlled the pace. The quarter concluded with George Mason narrowing the gap, ending 13–11 in favor of Saint Joseph's.
In the fourth quarter, George Mason gained momentum early with Anders scoring at 13:50. Following a draw control by Anders, Bestick extended George Mason's scoring with a goal at 11:14, assisted by Ellis. Bestick added another from a free position at 8:34 leveling the score at 14–14.
Despite Saint Joseph's regaining a two-goal lead, Anders scored again at 00:53, assisted by Bestick, bringing the game to a one-goal game. Ultimately, Saint Joseph's edged ahead, concluding the game with a final score of 16–15 in favor of the Hawks.
PATRIOT POINTS
Up Next
George Mason will complete their three-game home stand hosting the University of Richmond at George Mason Stadium in Fairfax, Virginia. The matchup is set for Wednesday, March 18 at 5 p.m.
