PHILADELPHIA, Pa. — George Washington and La Salle played to a 2-2 draw on Saturday, extending both teams' recent struggles in Atlantic 10 play. The Colonials (2-11-4) earned their second consecutive tie, while the Explorers (4-4-8) failed to capitalize on home-field advantage before an unspecified crowd.
Louis Crofts gave George Washington an early lead in the 32nd minute, assisted by Tommaso Lami. La Salle responded quickly when Zachary Forehand equalized in the 35th minute with help from Americo Pereira and Alexandru Zama. The first half ended level as both teams struggled to maintain possession in midfield.
Joel Russ restored George Washington's advantage in the 76th minute, assisted by Louis Saville, seemingly positioning the Colonials for a rare road victory. However, Americo Pereira leveled the match again in the 81st minute with an assist from Drew Blackwell, denying George Washington what would have been only their third win of the season.
La Salle dominated shot attempts 19-12 and held an 8-7 advantage in shots on goal, reflecting their territorial control throughout the match. George Washington's defense recorded six saves compared to La Salle's five, a critical factor in preserving the draw despite the Explorers' offensive pressure. Discipline proved problematic for the visitors, who accumulated five yellow cards against La Salle's two.
The draw marks La Salle's third consecutive result without a loss, following victories over George Mason and St. Bonaventure. For George Washington, the point represents minimal progress given their winless streak and conference position near the bottom of the standings.
George Washington returns to action against Dayton next, seeking their first victory since early October. La Salle continues conference play with upcoming fixtures that will determine their tournament positioning as the regular season enters its final stretch.