NEW YORK, NEW YORK — Columbia defeated Harvard 2-1 on Saturday, extending its winning streak to one game while handing the Crimson their second consecutive loss. The Lions improved to 6-6-3 overall with the victory at home, while Harvard fell to 5-6-3 after the defeat in New York.
Evelyn Javers opened the scoring for Columbia in the 17th minute, assisted by Maia Tabion, giving the hosts an early advantage. Harvard responded with intensity but couldn't find the back of the net in the first half despite generating offensive pressure. The match remained tightly contested through the opening 45 minutes, with both teams creating chances but Columbia maintaining its lead at the break.
Javers struck again in the 52nd minute, this time assisted by Annie Faraone, extending Columbia's advantage to 2-0 early in the second half. The goal appeared to put the match out of reach for the visiting Crimson, who faced an uphill battle to mount a comeback.
Harvard finally broke through late in the contest when Erin Gordon scored in the 88th minute, pulling the Crimson within one goal. The late tally provided a brief moment of hope, but Columbia held firm to secure the three points and snap a recent skid that included a 2-0 loss to Princeton on October 25.
Harvard dominated possession metrics, recording 12 shot attempts compared to Columbia's six, and earned 10 corner kicks to the Lions' zero. However, the Crimson converted only one of their six shots on goal, while Columbia's clinical finishing proved decisive. Columbia goalkeeper made five saves