In a collection full of statistics, it is easy to overlook those games which, because of emotion, match history and timing often become turning points during a season.

Though it is early in the Ivy league season, today's game between the Harvard men's soccer team and Columbia could prove to be just such a key contest.

Last week's loss to Ivy foe Cornell places Harvard in something of a must-win situation. The Ivy season is short with no second chances, so even a single loss can dim Ivy league title hopes.

"It's a real big game," sophomore forward Zachary Viders said. "All the Ivy league games are big especially after last week's loss. We basically have to win all the rest of our league games if we want to make playoffs."

However, not only does the fate of the present season hang in the balance, but there is also a revenge factor involved. Last year, the Crimson shut out the Lions at Ohiri Field 3-0. Harvard players suspect that Columbia is hoping to return the favor when the two teams do battle in the Bronx.

"Last year, we played really well against Columbia," junior midfielder Ricky Le said. "So, we're kind of worried that they're gonna come out wanting to draw first blood. We can't come out slow. We have to concentrate the whole 90 minutes, especially the first 20."

The Crimson is looking to its offense for a quick start and a decisive victory.

"I think the coach and the team are going to try to emphasize getting more offensive," Viders said. "We haven't scored too many goals in our scrimmages and in our first game against Cornell."

Although Harvard has been practicing moving the ball forward and into the back of the net, the team's task will be made all the more difficult by Columbia's home field advantage.

Harvard plays a very controlled, systematic style emphasizing possession and playing the ball on the ground. Given the rough pitch at Columbia, Harvard's style of play could be upset.

Although the second game of the season can be easily overlooked, it could provide just the victory the Crimson need to reclaim hopes for an Ivy League title and playoff berth.