Crimson Score Game-Winner 20 Minutes Into Second Half

CAMBRIDGE, Mass. – There would be no magical comeback on this night.

Last year at Reese Stadium, Yale scored twice in the final 2 minutes, 15 seconds to knock off Harvard 2-1.

On Saturday in Cambridge, the Bulldogs found themselves trailing 1-0 again late in the second half, but this time weren't able to rally, falling to the Crimson on a wet and cold night at Solders Field Soccer Stadium.

Mark Ashby scored the only goal of the game 20 minutes into the second half. It came when Ashby was able to find the ball in the middle of a scramble in the box.

The game was the Ivy League opener for both teams.

Yale's defense did a good job holding Harvard's high-powered offense in check. The Crimson had scored at least three goals in five straight games.

"Harvard is a dangerous offensive team," said Yale head coach Brian Tompkins. "They pressure hard and throw in a lot of set pieces. I thought we handled that really well."

Goalkeeper Blake Brown made five saves for the Bulldogs (0-7-2).

"Blake was outstanding," Tompkins said.

After Harvard grabbed the lead, Yale had a couple of opportunities to tie, including a shot from Ollie Iselin that went wide with 30 seconds remaining.

"We were in this game from start to finish," Tompkins said. "I thought our guys gave a great account of themselves in spite of the result. It's always tough to go on the road in the Ivy League. Hopefully we can take some positives from this."

The Bulldogs are off until next Saturday when they play at Dartmouth. Kickoff is slated for 7 p.m.

Report filed by Tim Bennett (timothy.bennett@yale.edu), Yale Sports Publicity