George Mason High School’s boys soccer team, a single-A team, lost to AAA high school Broad Run with a score of 5-2 and beat the Central High School team from Woodstock 2-1.
George Mason started the game last Friday against Broad Run combining passes to create many attacking plays, but Broad Run scored first off of a long throw in.
Mason continued its attack, and senior captain Eion Oosterbaan got the opportunity to take a penalty shot and tie the game. Oosterbaan added a second point soon after, breaking away from several defenders to score the second goal. Despite saves by freshman goalie Daniel Donovan, Mason gave up a second goal and ended the half tied 2-2.
In the second half, George Mason came out with less intensity, allowing Broad Run to score twice off of long throw ins. A third goal in the half for Broad Run finalized the game with a score of 5-2.
“Playing against these strong opponents challenges us, and it is a big reason why we are state championship contenders year after year,” Oosterbaan said. He pointed out that the purpose of playing AAA schools is to be challenged, not to enhance their record.
Mason faced Central in Woodstock the following Tuesday. Mason started strong as Oosterbaan curled a shot into the far corner to score the first goal of the game, but Central counterattacked and scored off of a breakaway to tie the game 1-1.
Mason began the second half struggling to find the back of the net. They continued to control the ball, but Central packed its defense, making it hard for Mason to take advantage of its offensive control.
With little time remaining, freshman Kavon Nowroozi ripped a shot to the upper left corner that gave Mason a 2-1 lead. Junior goalie Sebastian Umerez helped maintain this lead by making many key saves, and freshman defender Ned Quill made a crucial goal line save. The game was a Mason victory, 2-1.
“This team has the most potential of any Mason team I’ve been a part of in my four years here, and I’m excited for what’s to come this season,” Oosterbaan said.
This Friday, George Mason will play its last game before Spring Break, hosting Madison County High School.
