The George Mason High School girls soccer team continued its run of post-season victories with wins against Rappahannock County, Clarke County and Wilson Memorial high schools.
The team blanked Rappahannock County last Thursday in the semifinals of the Bull Run District tournament, 6-0, to advance to the finals and a nail-biter against Clarke County the following night. Mason beat Clarke County and won the district tournament, 6-5.
Mason won in another close game, with a score of 1-0, in the Region B tournament quarterfinals against Wilson Memorial Monday.
Despite the roaring thunder, which postponed the district semifinals from Wednesday to Thursday, the Mason team demonstrated cohesive passing and striking shots from the first minutes.
Racking up goals for the Mustangs were senior captain Leah Roth with one, sophomore Camille Rice with two, and sophomore Claire Trevisan with three. The Mason girls showcased their dominance in the district by breezing by Rappahannock County, and would continue to prove it in the district finals against Clarke County.
Mason came out aggressive and fighting against Clarke County. Freshman Ava Roth was fouled in the box, and the penalty kick was taken by junior Hailey Thomas. She placed the shot into the far right corner.
With runs down the sideline, Ava Roth helped her team gain many key opportunities. Leah Roth carried out an opportunity when a pass from freshman Mary Keenan led her to slash the ball into the right corner of the net.
In the ninth minute, Leah Roth flew a corner kick into the center. There, Trevisan was swarmed by defenders, but still managed to get her head on the ball and volley it into the net. Shortly after, Leah Roth beat two defenders and cut the ball back to gain an angle on goal, which she used to sling the ball into the far upper corner.
With the halftime score of 4-0 and another quick goal by Leah Roth, the Mustangs seemed to have total control of the game. Their consistent weaving of passes, runs on goal, and unbeatable defense, however, seemed to fade. Clarke County scored three goals in 10 minutes, which heated up both the field and the fans. After a missed penalty kick from Clarke County, junior Miska Chehata slid the ball past the goalie to gain Mason a 6-3 lead.
After Clarke County scored two more goals midway through the second half, an all-out scramble ensued. The Mason players managed to remain strong, held their 6-5 lead until the final whistle, and were crowned district champions.
Continuing their 11-game winning streak, Mason pulled out a victory in a close game against Wilson Memorial. Mason’s teamwork and fundamental skills trumped Wilson Memorial’s fancy footwork. Leah Roth scored the only goal, giving Mason the 1-0 win.
Mason played Goochland High School Wednesday in the regional semifinals, but results were not available at press time.