Boston University is confident the turf will make a big difference as it seeks revenge against the Crimson.

"Basically, the thick field was the big equalizer [in Harvard's 2-1 win]," Starr said.

The Crimson showed earlier in the season that the turf is advantageous to its small passing game and quick forwards; Cumnock field actually hampered Harvard's transitions in its game against West Chester. Harvard has practiced on turf the past two evenings to prepare for tonight's contest.

"We've beat them the past two years and they're really up for this game," Clark said. "But we're working on our own game and our passing."

"Sue has stressed that we play our position game," back Emily Buxton said. "B.U. plays a bigblast, long drive game, and we have to be in our positions."

The two biggest factors for the Crimson will be the play of Yadao and the effectiveness of its main corner players, Ambinder, Clark and Fowler.

Although Yadao frequently credits her backs, particularly Lawler, for keeping the attack away from her, she came up with several aggressive saves in Sunday's crucial win over Princeton.

B.U.'s lightening-fast field should increase the deadliness of Harvard's corner shots, which faltered a little last weekend.

Overall, it has been the efforts of the entire team which have carried the Crimson to its first-ever tournament, and Harvard is ready for a tough match.

"We've definitely come into our own as a team during the last few games," Buxton said. "We'll have to play tenaciously and together as a team to beat B.U."

The Terriers aren't the only hungry team in this town.