The Harvard field hockey team has not been mistaken for a fearsome scoring machine. At least not as of late.

The Crimson (5-3-1 overall, 2-0-1 Ivy) suffered its third shutout defeat in its last four games, dropping a 1-0 decision to the Providence Friars yesterday in Providence.

As usual, the Crimson played solidly when the ball was in its own end. But once again, Harvard found itself victimized by a stagnant offense against the 12th-ranked team in the nation.

The Harvard defense, led by Junior Co-Captain Ceci Clark and junior Sandra Whyte, held the Friars' attack in check during the first frame. But with 8:15 left in the contest, Providence netted its lone goal off a corner.

The Crimson offense was unable to counter, enduring its second straight shutout despite 24 shots on goal. Harvard Coach Sue Caples blamed her team's recent problems converting opportunities on a shortage of lucky breaks.

"It's a matter of timing," Caples said. "We just need one to fall for us. We're not about to panic just because things have been going badly."

Harvard controlled the game in the second half, but was unable to score on the stingy Providence defense. Despite allowing only four shots after intermission, the Crimson came home empty-handed.

"We played the entire second half on attack," Caples said. "It's hard to say we dominated when we lost, but we had 24 shots and 19 corners. We just need to tighten up on defense and take better advantage of our chances on offense. We've been giving up too many corners and we need to react to the ball quicker."

The Crimson will have a chance to work on its reactions Wednesday against the Terriers of Boston University before returning to Ivy League competition against Princeton next Saturday.