GMHS Girls Come Out on Top at Albemarle Meet

The George Mason freshman football team traveled to Madison County High School and lost 34 – 22 dropping its record to 2 – 2 (1 – 1 in the Bull Run District).

For the game, Madison County had 289 total yards and Mason had a nearly identical 287 total yards. But Madison led in the only statistical category that matters, posting a 20 – 0 lead at halftime.

Turnovers plagued the Mustangs, with George Mason losing four fumbles, throwing two interceptions while committing eight penalties. The timing of the errors especially hurt Mason’s momentum.

But at the root of it all was a Madison County team prepared to hand out a physical lesson from the opening whistle. Madison unleashed an effort by its offensive line that dominated the first half, opening holes for a group of running backs that were strong and elusive.

The George Mason defensive line played well, but once Madison’s running backs penetrated the line of scrimmage they frequently cut back across the grain, running over Mason’s linebackers and through arm tackles in the secondary for significant gains.

George Mason’s freshman coaching staff has mentioned earlier in the season about the challenge of getting young players to know the Mason system and concentration from start to finish. But a new lesson was learned: Be prepared physically, as well.

“It is good to have new faces stepping up in the middle of the season – some guys are hungry to play,” Head coach LaBryan Thomas said. “The guys on the line played great, but eighth grader Taylor Hayes-Leak got us our first score by returning a kickoff 70 yards for a touchdown, and freshman Tasso McCarthy had a 41 yard touchdown run, too.” The next freshman contest is at home against Bull Run District rival Clarke County High School next Wednesday, Oct. 27 starting at 6:30 pm..