FAIRFAX, Va. — George Mason University (5-5, 1-2) fell to the University of Richmond (6-2, 3-0) with a final score of 18-8 at George Mason Stadium on Wednesday. Despite the defeat, the Patriots capitalized on two player-up opportunities, contributing to their eight-goal tally.
The game commenced with the Spiders' Meghan Rode securing the draw control, setting the stage for an early offensive push. Richmond capitalized on a player-up opportunity when Alexis Morton scored at 12:18, assisted by Rode. The Patriots responded as
Kate Anders netted a player-down goal at 3:55, narrowing the gap after a series of strategic plays, including a successful draw control by Anders. Despite the Green & Gold's efforts, Richmond closed the quarter with a goal by Juliana Stanley at 1:03, assisted by Bridget Lonsinger, securing a 3-1 lead at the end of the first quarter.
George Mason started the second quarter with a strong offensive display.
Matye Riley scored a player-up goal with an assist from Anders at 14:14, followed by a free position goal from
Kaitlyn Bestick at 12:47, leveling the game. Riley added another goal at 4:54, briefly putting the Patriots ahead. Richmond countered with five goals, including two from Rode, turning the tide in their favor. Despite the Green & Gold's defensive efforts, Richmond's late surge concluded the quarter with an 8-4 lead.
George Mason made a significant impact early in the third quarter when Bestick scored from a free position at 11:01, narrowing the gap. Despite Bestick's efforts, the Spiders responded with a strong offensive push, including a goal by Emma Kroneberger at 8:26, which extended their lead. Later in the quarter, the Patriots capitalized on a player-up advantage when Bestick scored again, assisted by
Riley Ellis at 5:57. However, Richmond's offense proved challenging, adding two late goals, including one by Morton at 2:35. The quarter concluded with Richmond ahead 13-6.
George Mason started the fourth quarter with a significant defensive play as
Margaret Harmon caused a turnover, which led to
Regan Bestick securing the ground ball.
Kaitlyn Bestick capitalized on this momentum with a goal at 11:24, narrowing the deficit. Riley added another goal for the Patriots at 7:56, further closing the gap. Despite these efforts, the Spiders responded with a series of goals, including a free-position goal by Morton at 1:38, which extended their lead. The Patriots' defense, highlighted by
Regan Bestick's save on a free-position shot, couldn't fully contain Richmond's offense. The game concluded with Richmond securing an 18-8 victory over the Green & Gold.
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Looking ahead, George Mason will face Duquesne University on Saturday, March 21. The game is set to begin at 1 p.m. in Pittsburgh, Pa.
