The end of yesterday's men's soccer game was dramatic and exciting; it shouldn't have been.

With Harvard cruising to an apparent 2-1 victory, Northeastern (4-3-0, 0-0-0 American East) tied the game on an improbable goal with four minutes remaining.

But a last-minute goal from sophomore midfielder Michael Peller with just 1:09 left in regulation secured a 3-2 victory for Harvard (2-3-1, 1-1-0 Ivy) at Ohiri Field, its first win without junior captain Ryan Kelly.

"We were very fortunate to come away win a win against Northeastern," Harvard Coach John Kerr said.

Just as the game seemed destined for extra time, the Crimson proved its resiliency, taking the lead for the third time in the match.

As the game clock winded down toward the final minute of play, sophomore defender Joe Steffa handled a throw-in behind the left sideline deep in Northeastern territory. His heave found senior forward Will Hench, who used his head to redirect the pass to Peller, who, in turn, headed the ball past the goaltender for the game-winner.

"Heading isn't really my specialty," said an obviously surprised Peller. "I think this is the first time I've done it."

The Crimson needed Peller's dramatic strike because in the 87th minute, Husky captain Brendan Faherty gained possession of a loose ball amidst a scurry in front of the Harvard goal and grounded the ball inside the near post, tying the game, 2-2.

"It looked like there was a miscommunication on that play," Kerr said. "[Faherty] just happened to be at the right place at the right time. Our keeper did not read the play quick enough."