After four disappointing losses to open the season, the men's water polo team rebounded with a strong showing in the New York Challenge Tournament at Fordham University in Bronx, N.Y. HARVARD  10 IONA  9 HARVARD  7 QUEENS  9 HARVARD  10 ST. FRANCIS  13 HARVARD  12 USMMA  5 HARVARD  11 FORDHAM  6

"We played really well--it was like a completely different team," said captain Mike Zimmerman.

Harvard (3-6) opened the tournament with a 10-9 win over Iona on Saturday. Zimmerman scored seven goals, in what Coach Jim Floerchinger termed a "dominating" performance.

Harvard was also helped by the outstanding play of sophomore goalie Josh Bliesath. Prior to this year, Bliesath was a driver. However, due to others' injuries, he became the goalie this year.

"Josh has continually improved at goalie," Floerchinger said. "He was on fire this weekend."

Harvard followed the win with a tough 9-7 loss to Queens, the defending Northern Division Champion. Harvard played tough in this close, physical match. Floerchinger was enthused with the team's play and the prospect of redemption when the team's meet again this weekend at Brown.

"I'm confident of beating them," he said. "We're going to tear it up next weekend."

In the following game, its final one on Saturday, Harvard fell to Northern Division-rival St. Francis 13-10.

But it rebounded yesterday with a 12-5 win over the Merchant Marine Academy. In spite of rough play by the Academy--several players were ejected--Harvard maintained control of the game with a balanced scoring attack. The win showcased Harvard's depth, which may be its greatest asset.

"We are a really deep, talented team in which everyone contributes," Zimmerman said.

Harvard ended the tournament with an 11-6 win over Fordham. The win was particularly sweet for Harvard because it had lost to Fordham 18-9 in its second game of the season a week ago.

This marked improvement can be attributed to the growing experience of Bliesath in goal. Floerchinger said he expects more improvement throughout the season, including the upcoming home match against MIT tomorrow night.

"We are a talented team playing exciting water polo," he said.