After a slow first half, Oregon lacrosse was dominate in the second as the team coasted to a 15-9 win over George Mason at Papé Field Wednesday evening.
It was a return to form for Oregon (4-2) after losing just two days ago. Senior goalie Jenna Morris was the star for the Ducks, finishing with a season-high eight saves in 56:18 minutes.
After trading goals for most of the first half, Oregon was able to take control in the opening minutes of the second, collecting four-straight goals to jump out to a 10-6 lead over the Patriots.
Offensively the Ducks again relied on a balanced attack, with Natalie Modly, Carly O’Connell, Shannon Williams and Mariah Gatti all scoring twice. Cambi Cukar had a pair of assists, including an over-the-net lob that lead to a goal.
George Mason got off to a quick start, claiming three of the first four goals. The Ducks fought back, and a Nikita Bagg first-career goal off a free-position shot tied it with just over 10 minutes to play in the first.
With 1:40 left on the clock Oregon was finally able to take the 6-5 lead after Holly Johnson was able to find the back of the net, all the sweeter as she was celebrating her birthday.
It was Williams who sparked the run in the second half with a free position goal that would put the home team in the lead for good.
One of the keys to the victory was the play of Jill Zubillaga. She was instrumental on defense, tripling her career high in forced turnovers with three.
After a tough three games in five nights, Oregon will finally have some time to rest before returning to the field Sunday to host Fresno State. The match is set to begin at 11 a.m.
Follow Christopher Keizur on Twitter @chriskeizur