Although it is difficult to substantively judge the importance of a series of blowouts, Munoz expressed satisfaction with the team's performance.

"There weren't many great standout individual performances because everyone did such a great job," Munoz said. "Our teamwork was great, that's the important thing."

With the win, Harvard's won-loss record became more indicative of the level it has played at this year. The team began the spring season with 1-3 and 2-1 outings at invitational meets at Princeton and Brown, respectively.

The first two meets, however, represented the roughest portion of the Crimson's schedule for weeks. The Harvard schedule was deliberately configured to open with a baptism by fire, pitting the team against higher-regarded opponents like UMass and Brown.

March goes out like a lamb early for the Crimson, however. Meets like the one at Connecticut College and next week's tournament at MIT feature lesser opponents, and are an opportunity to build on what was learned in the initial challenges. The month will end with matches in California against unranked UC-Irvine and Whittier College before the championship season commences in April.

"We're in a bit of a lull right now," Munoz said. "But this gives us a chance to work on a few things. The second string gets to play, and some very good swimmers who just got back from their other events get the chance to practice more."

Harvard Coach Jim Floerchinger hopes that the schedule will help his team in preparation for the College Water Polo Association Eastern Championships at Princeton on April 29. Last year, the team barely missed a trip to the national championships. This year, a more mature club is primed for another run at an Eastern berth.

At the very least, this weekend proved that the Crimson wins the games is are supposed to.