In the second game of a crucial five-game homestand, the Harvard men's soccer team defeated Boston College 1-0 in a tough grudge match yesterday afternoon.

Controlling most of the game against its cross-town rival, the Crimson (4-2-1) improved its prospects for a postseason appearance. With the win over the Eagles (5-3-0), who were ranked No. 5 in New England, Harvard has improved its chances of moving into the regional rankings.

"I knew we were dominating and that we would wear them down," Kerr said. "It was inevitable."

The Crimson's initial performance hinted at a final score much more lopsided than the final 1-0 tally. In the first 10 minutes of the match, Harvard had two threatening shots on goal.

The Crimson continued to control possession of the ball for the remainder of the half as well, but demonstrated a frustrating inability to close out great scoring chances.

Of the notable opportunities, sophomore back Joe Steffa headed a ball just wide off a corner kick by sophomore back Mike Cornish in the 10th minute of play.

Eight minutes later, freshman midfielder Grayson Sugarman sent a cross which captain Ryan Kelly shot wide of the goal.

In contrast with the unproductive offense, the defense effectively shut down all of the Eagles' attempts at scoring by keeping the ball out of the Crimson box.