FAIRFAX, Va. — George Mason University fell to St. Bonaventure University, 16–8, on Saturday at George Mason Stadium. The Patriots' offense was led by four goals from free position shots, but the Bonnies' consistent scoring across all four quarters secured their victory.
George Mason began the first quarter by securing key defensive plays, including multiple saves by
Regan Bestick. Despite initial turnovers, the team responded effectively. At 3:22,
Riley Ellis capitalized on a free position attempt, putting the Green & Gold on the scoreboard. Momentum continued as
Kate Anders added another goal from a free position shot at 1:03. The quarter concluded with the Patriots trailing the Bonnies, 4–2.
The Patriots found momentum early in the second quarter when
Kaitlyn Bestick secured a draw control, which was quickly followed by
Addison Bechler's goal at 12:22. Bechler continued to spark the offense, scoring again at 11:12 after another draw control by
Gabby Rizzio, narrowing the deficit to 5–4. However, the Bonnies responded with two goals from Grace Hollenbeck and Gracie Williams, extending their lead to 7–4.
Despite a series of attempts and a timeout at 5:02, George Mason struggled to convert further opportunities, including a saved shot by Anders. The Bonnies added another goal late in the quarter, ending the frame with a score of 8–4 in their favor.
George Mason initiated the third quarter with a goal by
Giselle Torain at 14:14, following a draw control by
Isabella Munz.
Matye Riley extended the scoring for the Patriots with a goal at 11:24, assisted by Ellis. Despite this momentum, the Bonnies responded with three consecutive goals, taking a lead in the middle of the quarter.
Anders closed the gap with a free position goal at 2:16, but the team was unable to reclaim the lead. The quarter ended with a score of 11–7 in favor of St. Bonaventure.
The Patriots faced a challenging fourth quarter as the Bonnies quickly expanded their lead. Despite early defensive efforts, including multiple saves by
Regan Bestick, George Mason conceded five goals. A pivotal moment for the Patriots came when Torain caused a turnover, leading to increased offensive activity. The team persisted, and
Delaney Stup capitalized on a free position opportunity to score at 00:22, narrowing the gap slightly. The game concluded with a final score of St. Bonaventure 16, Patriots 8.
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Looking ahead, George Mason will host the University of Rhode Island at George Mason Stadium in Fairfax, Va. for Senior Day. 11 student-athletes will be honored in a pregame ceremony. The game is set for Saturday, April 18 at noon.