Stickwomen Frustrated, 0-0

Does the Harvard field hockey team like to play double overtime games?

It definitely seems that way. The Crimson's last five games have been marathons where the 70-minute regulation time and a 15-minute first overtime period resolved nothing.

Against Dartmouth in Hanover, N.H., Saturday, even a second overtime proved nothing. Harvard, in a disappointing performance, was not able to get any goals in its 0-0 tie.

"Dartmouth wanted it more and outplayed us," Harvard Coach Sue Caples said. "They had more enthusiasm and desire. We were playing to play, not playing to win."

"It wasn't terrible," co-captain Francie Walton said. "We never really got into rhythm."

The disappointing draw means Harvard is mathematically eliminated from winning the Ivy League championship.

The Crimson (4-8-3 overall, 2-2-1 Ivy) was confident about Saturday's game, coming off an upset of 18th-ranked Princeton and a strong showing against Northeastern.

"We absolutely should have won," Caples said. "We are much more skilled than they are, and we should have more confidence in overtime situations, considering how many of those we have played."

The Big Green, nevertheless, was somehow able to stay in front of its Crimson counterparts.

"They took us out of our game," co-captain Emily Buxton said. "They were really quick."

"We had a tough time setting up our shots," senior Amy Belisle said. "People weren't stepping up to the ball [fast enough]."

Dartmouth's offensive style frustrated Harvard all day, as the Big Green made long passes across the field, instead of playing the short, quick game that the Crimson prefers.

"Dartmouth played a big ball [long passes] game," Caples said. "We're a possession team--small passes. You get tempted to play their game."

As a result, Harvard was held to only eight shots, while Dartmouth blasted 16, forcing sophomore goalie Jessica Milhollin to make 13 saves.

"Jessica did a great job in goal," Caples said. "She's been tough to beat."