Lenicheck's score pulled the Crimson to within a goal, but it would be the last offensive production from either side as the second half became a defensive chess match.

Even in the losing effort, Mejias was solid and displayed a wealth of skill. He made nine saves, including two phenomenal stops that kept the game as close as it would end.

"Without a doubt, Danny Mejias was the MVP of the game," Kelly said. "Without him in goal we would have lost by a lot more."

The game against Brown was the last of a four-game road trip for the Crimson. Next up, Harvard will host four games at Ohiri Field beginning this Tuesday with a contest against Northeastern.

"We learned a hard lesson this weekend, that a few lapses can cost you," Kelly said. "But we're hoping to go 4-0 in our games at home to get our season back on track."

Kelly has a point. In the last few seasons, the eventual Ivy champ did not go undefeated. If Harvard can learn from its early season miscues, then a title and NCAA tourney bid is still a possibility.

Most importantly though, Harvard has no reason to be ashamed of its gritty performance this weekend.

"We need to move on and take care of business," George said. "We have absolutely no reason to hang our heads."