Get ready, field hockey fans! The No. 4 Harvard Crimson are Durham-bound, securing their place in the NCAA Tournament Semifinals after an incredible performance! This marks a triumphant return, as it's the first time since 2021 that Harvard has made it this far.
After a tense, scoreless first quarter, the Crimson struck first. Sophomore Martha le Huray, a star player, capitalized on a penalty corner rebound, sending the ball into the cage. This goal wasn't just a score; it was a milestone, pushing her season totals to a career-high 13 goals and 32 points.
Harvard's dominance continued throughout the quarterfinal clash against UConn. They controlled possession and stifled the UConn attack, outshooting them 18-8. A key factor in this victory was the stellar performance of first-year Linde Burger, the Ivy League's Rookie of the Year, who made four crucial saves, earning her ninth shutout of the season.
But here's where it gets controversial... the upcoming semifinal match-up against No. 3 Princeton promises to be an epic battle. This Ivy League rivalry will unfold on the grandest stage yet, with the game scheduled for Friday, November 21st, at noon, airing live on ESPNU.
Let's break down how the victory unfolded:
The initial phase of the game was a back-and-forth affair, with both Harvard and UConn creating scoring opportunities. Harvard managed three shots in the first quarter, while UConn had five.
The Crimson broke the deadlock in the second quarter. Lara Beekhuis's shot was deflected by the UConn goalkeeper, but le Huray was there to pounce on the rebound, scoring the game-winning goal. This goal highlighted le Huray's exceptional season, with both her goals and points reaching career highs.
Harvard went into halftime with a 1-0 lead, having taken seven shots compared to UConn's six. Burger's performance in the first half was crucial, with three saves.
The second half was all Harvard. Their defense shut down UConn's offense, particularly in the third and fourth quarters. In the third quarter, Harvard unleashed six shots off of three penalty corners while limiting UConn to a single shot. In the final quarter, Harvard continued to control the pace, conceding only one shot while taking five shots of their own.
le Huray's second-quarter goal proved decisive, securing Harvard's spot in the Semifinals with a 1-0 victory. Throughout the game, the Crimson outshot UConn, 18-8. UConn's offense was largely contained in the second half, with only two shots taken. Burger's impressive performance earned her the ninth shutout of the year, with four saves.
Harvard's Key Highlights:
- This marks Harvard's second trip to the NCAA Tournament Semifinals in program history, the first being in 2021.
- Under head coach Tjerk van Herwaarden, the Crimson's record in the NCAA Tournament is now 7-5.
- Harvard boasts a +7-goal differential in the NCAA Tournament this season, the best in the field.
- le Huray's goal brought her season totals to career-highs of 13 goals and 32 points.
- Burger's ninth shutout is just one shy of the school record held by Ellie Shahbo from the 2021 season.
What's Next?
Harvard will face No. 3 Princeton in the Semifinals on Friday, November 21st, at Williams Field at Jack Katz Stadium in Durham, North Carolina. The match is set to be broadcast live on ESPNU.
What are your thoughts on Harvard's chances against Princeton? Do you think Burger can break the school record for shutouts? Share your predictions in the comments below!
