CAMBRIDGE, Massachusetts - Boston U. (6-3-0) defeated Harvard (3-3-2) 3-2 in a back-and-forth battle on Tuesday evening at Jordan Field. The Terriers extended their winning streak to two games while handing the Crimson their second straight loss.
The match saw multiple lead changes with both teams displaying offensive prowess. Harvard struck first through Xavier Tanyi's early attempt in the 6th minute that tested the Terriers' defense. Boston U. responded with Quin DeLaMater's shot in the 11th minute, setting the tone for an action-packed contest.
The first half featured intense midfield battles, with Harvard's Mikey Cortellessa receiving a yellow card in the 18th minute for unsporting behavior. Ryan Lau had multiple opportunities for Boston U., including a blocked shot following a free kick and another attempt in the 22nd minute. The Crimson's defensive unit, anchored by Tim Langenbahn, worked to contain the Terriers' attack.
Second half action intensified as both teams made tactical adjustments. Harvard's Alejandro Palacio received a yellow in the 57th minute, while Boston U.'s attack gained momentum through Pharis Petrica, who recorded multiple shots including a dangerous attempt in the 78th minute. The Terriers' Giuseppe Bagnato was cautioned in the 86th minute as tensions rose late in the match.
Statistical analysis showed an evenly matched contest. Boston U. recorded 13 shot attempts to Harvard's 12, with both teams managing 6 shots on target. The Terriers held a slight advantage in corner kicks (6-3), while Harvard conceded more yellow cards (3-1). Boston U.'s goalkeeper made 4 crucial saves, while Harvard's netminder recorded 3 stops.
Individual performances highlighted the competitive nature of the match. Boston U.'s Pharis Petrica was particularly active in the attack with multiple shot attempts, while Ryan Lau and Diego Rived provided consistent offensive pressure before being substituted in the 69th minute. For Harvard, Andreas Savva and Shane Lonergan created several dangerous opportunities, with Lonergan receiving a yellow card in the 83rd minute during a crucial phase of play.
The tactical battle showcased both teams' adaptability, with Harvard making strategic substitutions including the removal of Alexander Castel in the 73rd minute. Boston U.'s approach emphasized wing play, evidenced by their higher corner kick count, while Harvard focused on building through the middle with players like Ben Kelly and Rustin Khosravi.
This victory continues Boston U.'s strong form, improving their record to 6-3-0 and maintaining momentum following their win at Bucknell. For Harvard, the loss marks their second consecutive defeat, dropping their record to 3-3-2 as they look to regroup from a challenging stretch.
The match's intensity was reflected in the four yellow cards issued and the constant tactical adjustments from both benches. Boston U.'s ability to maintain composure in the final minutes proved decisive, with key defensive stops preventing Harvard's late push for an equalizer.
Looking ahead, Harvard will aim to snap their losing streak when they travel to Penn on October 4, while Boston U. returns home to host Loyola Maryland on October 5, seeking to extend their winning run to three matches.