The Crimson's unflappable effort in the game was an entirely appropriate way to conclude the season for a Harvard squad that overcame as much as the Crimson did this year.

"Considering how hard we played, and the injuries we had, and the tough schedule we have, there is no shame at all in losing in the round of 16," Wheaton said. "I am so proud of all of them."

Notes

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Harvard arrived for its third-round clash with Notre Dame this weekend hoping to make Friday evening the night the lights went out for the Fighting Irish.

For as long as Notre Dame has held the top ranking in the national polls, the Irish women's soccer team has enjoyed an honor usually reserved for the football team in the form of an illuminated "#1" sign that stands atop one of the school's academic buildings.

Unfortunately for the Crimson, the tribute will remain in effect at least until the Irish plays its quarterfinal opponent, Santa Clara, at home next weekend.

Interestingly, prior to this fall, the sign had not been lighted since 1993. That is when the sons of Knute Rockne last sat atop the college football rankings....

After suffering a concussion in last week's 3-0 second-round victory over Hartford, back Kathleen Ferguson did not play against Notre Dame on Friday. The Crimson still employed a four-person defensive backfield, however, as Wheaton started sophomore Bryce Weed in Ferguson's place.