FAIRFIELD, Conn. – The three-time defending NIRA 15s national champion Harvard women's rugby team opened its 2026 fall campaign with a 26–24 victory over Sacred Heart University on Saturday at Park Ave Field.
Harvard struck first as
Gemma Ogoke found the try zone to give the Crimson an early advantage.
Madelyn Hubbell followed with a strong breakthrough run for Harvard's second try, helping the Crimson take a 14–12 lead into halftime.
Harvard came out firing in the second half, extending its advantage as
Maya Hilger added a try.
Sana'a Lunon then capitalized on a Sacred Heart turnover, scooping up the loose ball and diving into the try zone to push the Crimson further ahead.
Harvard built a 26–12 advantage before Sacred Heart mounted a late comeback, scoring twice to cut the deficit to 26–24. The Pioneers had one final opportunity to tie the match, but their final kick fell short, allowing Harvard to hold on for the two-point victory.
With the win, Harvard opens the 2026 season 1–0.
Up Next
Harvard will return home to host Brown on Saturday, Sept. 12 at 4 p.m. at Mignone Field. The match will stream on ESPN+.
