VILLANOVA, Pa. – No. 8 Harvard women's water polo jumped out to a 6-1 lead in the first quarter to help the Crimson win its seventh straight game to open the season. Despite a late push from the Seahawks, the Crimson defense held strong after Wagner made the game 12-8 heading into the final quarter but the Crimson would hold on for a 16-11 win.  Two-time Defensive Player of the Week Orli Cooper was the story yet again after making 14 saves in the win.

The seventh win of the season for the Crimson marks the first time since 2019 that Harvard has won seven straight games to open the season.

HARVARD HIGHLIGHTS

• Heidi Heffelfinger and Sofia Del Villar both added three assists.
• Niki Piovan added four goals as the sophomore continues to get off to a hot start this season.
• Emma Gilbert and Petra Klemm both recorded hat tricks.
• Beatrice Hearey and Serafina Cortez both scored once.
• Eight different Crimson scored in the game, while 12 recorded at least a point in the win.

NEXT UP
Harvard closes the weekend with California Baptist and hosts Villanova tomorrow, with the game against the Wildcats streaming on ESPN+.