Lee scored three of the Crimson's six hard-earned goals. (Zack Williamson)

CAMBRIDGE, Mass. - No. 19 Harvard men's water polo (21-8, 7-4) battled with No. 11 Brown (24-6, 11-1), Sunday at MIT's Zesiger Pool for the CWPA Northern Division Championship, falling to the top-seeded Bears, 9-6.

The Bears built an early lead in the first quarter, scoring four unanswered goals in quick succession. The Crimson offense never found its rhythm in the first eight minutes and went into the second period down 4-0.

Junior Blake Lee opened Harvard's account with a close range finish early in the second period, cutting the Brown lead to 4-1. The Crimson defense settled in after the goal, forcing the Bears into many tough shots. With 1:45 left in the quarter, goalie Colin Woolway was given a tough ejection penalty, momentarily leaving the Crimson goal unattended for an easy Brown score. Soon after, the halftime whistle blew and Harvard found itself behind, 6-1.

Harvard's offense came to life in the third quarter, finding the back of the net three times. The Crimson again opened the quarter scoring first after a long-range effort from Lee, but Harvard was still down 6-2. Joey Colton was strong in the quarter, scoring twice, but Brown was able to put in two more goals, taking an 8-4 lead into the final frame. 

Facing a four point deficit, the Crimson showed great resilience, playing amazing defense and allowing only one goal. Senior Max Murphy and Lee found the back of the net for Harvard in the fourth quarter cutting the Bear lead to 9-6. Unfortunately the Crimson could not finish the comeback with 9-6 proving to be the final score.

Harvard will have next week off as they prepare for the CWPA Eastern Championship tournament, Nov. 21-23,  hosted by Navy.