For some reason, despite the four-dollar ticket prices, fans found their way across the river, and for the first time in a long time, Harvard hockey reverted back to the days when home ice really meant something. Not only were there bodies in the stands, but there were screaming, jeering students who actually made their presence known.

"We were all excited to be at home, but we weren't sure if it was going to be a home advantage at all," said sophomore Scott Turco. "It was just great support this weekend, and hopefully some of them will head up to Lake Placid."

The best way to get fans into the rink is to be successful, and for the first time Harvard hockey did just that. Any fan who was present throughout the two-game series, was witness to exciting, transitional play which was replete with drama. Yet in the end the home team was the last one standing, and the only team at Bright heading towards the Great White North.

The rink was far from full, but then again the team's record was far from .500. A win or two or three in Lake Placid could do wonders, as could a solid 1998-99 season.

If the Crimson is going to take a step towards regaining the respect that it once had during the days when it was challenging for the national championship, then home ice is the place to start.

Last night was indeed a special moment for the Crimson players because for the first time they were able to remain on the ice as the Colgate players marched back to their locker room.

Then, in a solitary motion all the players raised their sticks in salute. It was a message directed at not only themselves for winning the series, but it was a resounding thank you to the friends, families and fans who were there to witness their feat.