The Crimson fencing team has an excellent chance this afternoon to run its unbeaten string against third-rate teams to three wins when it takes to the strips against the Trinity College Hilltoppers in Hartford, Conn. Against good teams, the Crimson is 1-2.

"We should have no problem with them," coach Edo Marion said yesterday, "but occasionally one of these weak teams is able to pick up some talent and surprise us."

The Crimson was surprised by M. I. T. and Brandeis last year, but not so much by hidden talent as by overconfidence. Both teams took early leads on a lackadaisical Harvard squad, and before the Crimson knew it, they faced the prospect of catch-up fencing. "Because of those two losses and the scare Duke gave us Friday, we will always start our first team even against weaker opponents," coach Marion said.

"After we build a substantial lead, then we'll replace the first team." he added.

All-American Tom Keller is a questionable starter against Trinity. In amateur competition Sunday, a blade cut through his glove, and the skin between his thumb and forefinger, causing a painful injury that impairs control of the blade.

Matches against teams like the Hilltoppers can only be classified as ego trips. "I don't even think that they will be good preparation for Penn," coach Marion said.