By Beth Pyne (January 20, 2002)

The George Mason Mustangs fell to 2-4 in the Bull Run District Friday night in a low-scoring game against Brentsville, 41-30. Although the outcome was not what they had hoped, Mason coaches Dave Garrison and Dan Wilkie praised their team’s "incredible defensive effort."

After giving up 14 points in the first quarter, the Mustangs held the Tigers to 11 or fewer points in each of the following quarters, including just six in the fourth. Unfortunately, they could not capitalize on this defensive performance, as they were unable to consistently hit shots on the offensive end.

Down by four going into the second quarter, Mason played Brentsville even until midway through the period, when the Tigers made a run to put themselves comfortably ahead. Senior Justin Barrow cut the lead to under 10 on a jump shot to end the quarter.

The Mustangs managed only six points in the third quarter, but turned the tables on Brentsville in the final period, holding the visiting team scoreless for over six minutes. However, the Tigers fended off the Mustang attack and sealed the victory with free throws in the last minute.

Frequent substitutions to keep legs fresh on defense gave many players a chance to step on the floor and contribute. Garrison and Wilkie were pleased with the play of both starters and reserves, saying, "Everyone came together in a total team effort."

Barrow finished with six points and five assists and senior forward Ben Griffin added eight points, 10 rebounds and five steals.

The Cagers will look to rebound next Tuesday at home in a district match-up with Clarke County.