George Mason High School’s varsity football team took to the field last Thursday at the start of a new fall season with hopes of improving last season’s disappointing 1-7 record, but hosting a driven J.E.B. Stuart High School squad didn’t give the Mustangs the win they were looking for; they lost 35-6.

Stuart got out ahead by 14 points and held the Mason team scoreless for two quarters. The Mustangs inched back with six points in the third quarter, but the game was lost by the fourth.

“The effect of a small roster took its toll, but our kids fought until the last whistle and that is all you can ask as a coach,” said Head Coach Tony Green.

Last Thursday’s game was the first for Mason with Green at the helm. Green replaced longtime coach and Mason director of athletics Tom Horn, and has been working all summer with the team in practices in preparation for the coming season.

“We have a very good group of highly motivated young men who work very hard to improve every day in practice,” Green said.

The Mustangs will travel Friday to take on Luray High School. Last year, Luray gave the Mason team its sole victory of the 2011 season in a 24-7 game.

“Luray on Friday will be another great test for the Mustangs,” Green said. “The players have been working hard all week to be prepared for that contest.”