By: Becky Roa (November 15, 2002)

The George Mason Mustangs got revenge for two regular season losses by squeeking by the second-seeded Strasburg Rams last night 48-40 in overtime in the Bull Run District semifinals at Clarke County High School. This tense win qualified the Mustangs to play for the Tournament title on Saturday against the first- seeded Madison County Mountaineers and also qualified them for the Regional tournament regardless of the results on Saturday night.
 

Due to early Mason turnovers in the first quarter, the Rams were able to get an eight-point lead over the Mustangs. Second quarter allowed the Lady ‘Stangs to adjust their defensive press and convert steals into numerous layups, putting the ‘Stangs in the lead by halftime. In both the third and fourth quarters the lead changed hands repeatedly. The game ended in a 40-40 tie in regulation time.  Overtime brought hesitant players on both sides leaving the score 40-40 until the last two minutes. Under pressure to stop the clock, the Rams fouled the ‘Stangs with a minute and a half left. Freshman Maggie O’Toole stepped up and converted each time she was at the foul line, making all six attempts. Junior Amanda Harrington added the other two points.

Freshman point guard Maggie O'Toole came through in overtime hitting crucial free throws.   (Photo by Becky Roa)