The Crimson has to focus on maintaining a strong defensive game, as RPI would take advantage of lapses in short order. RPI is deadly on the offensive, especially when given opportunities for odd-man rushes.

"We have to try to reveal their defensive lapses. RPI isn't that concerned with its defense," said freshman center Jeff Stonehouse. "If we play a tight defensive game they'll get frustrated. If we remain patient our chances will come."

Of late, the Crimson has made marked improvement with its power play. Harvard notched a 45 percent success rate on the power play last weekend, which is not reflected in its 16.9 percent season average, only eighth in the ECAC.

Defensemen Ben Storey and Matt Scorsune have stepped up to man the point effectively, and Moore, Chris Bala, and Rob Millar have pooled their talent and have become a special-teams menace.

"With our power play stepping up, it gives us a lot of confidence heading into the playoffs," Tomassoni said. "It's definitely a good time for the team to improve."

However, the Engineers' power play is at 23.5 percent, second only to Clarkson in the ECAC. They have five great offensive players who dominate during the one-man advantages.

"The best way to avoid being scored on during a power play is to not get any penalties," Tomassoni said. "We get in a little trouble with the power plays, and we just need to stay out of the penalty box."