In addition to Kelly, two sophomores--midfielder Joey Smolen and forward Marko Soldo--are out for the season.

Smolen, who scored the winning goal in a 2-1 win against Columbia, came off the bench and also saw time in the starting line-up. Soldo saw limited minutes on the front line, but provided the Crimson offense with a crafty turn and an extremely hard shot.

Also battered is sophomore forward Alan Bengtzen, who hurt his foot against Northeastern. Bengtzen has been in and out of the line-up since then, but will see some time today.

As Harvard's attack went to the infirmary, the team has been falling in the standings. In the four-game skid since the end of September, the Crimson has been outscored 11-2.

The lack of offensive production has translated into increased pressure on a young Crimson defense, which is quickly earning its stripes in this trial-by-fire season.

"We have slowly been learning what people can do, and what they can't," sophomore goalkeeper Mike Meagher said. "The problem with learning this during the season is that it leads to goals. With Kelly back, we're having to adjust again, but things look pretty good."

Perhaps the most important effect in the recent slide is the loss of Crimson confidence