Zacarian has kept Harvard alive in close games before. In a 1-0 double overtime loss to UMass earlier this year, the Minutewomen went 89 minutes without beating her, despite outshooting Harvard 22-5.

"I anticipate a busy game all over the field," Zacarian said. "For me, it doesn't matter if I get one shot or 20."

The Demon Deacons defense has been even more stellar than Harvard's this season. Wake Forest has shut out 10 opponents and only allowed four teams to score more than a goal in a single game, namely the four other teams in the ACC. It would be difficult for Harvard to come back if its defense is the first to falter.

"When you get to the tournament, whoever makes the least number of mistakes and whoever can execute will win," Caples said. "We'll definitely need our 'A' game."

The Crimson forwards should be ready to step up in their biggest game of the season. McDavitt, with her explosive speed and stick-handling abilities, is capable of making a great individual play and breaking in for a goal at any point in the game. The freshman does not doubt her ability to break through the Deacon defense.

"I think I've played individuals just as good in summer leagues," McDavitt said. "Mostly individuals, but not complete teams."

Sophomore Philomena Gambale, Harvard's spark of the bench, and senior Kate Nagle, the No. 4 scorer in Crimson field hockey history, are the team's other top scoring threats.

Much of Harvard's success on Saturday will be determined by its ability to handle the pressure of the NCAA Tournament setting.