At the start of last week, the men's volleyball team was in a tailspin. The Crimson had lost three straight games to EIVA opponents and was in danger of squandering a promising season.

Going into the final three home games of the season and a tough league match on the road, Harvard seniors Joe Herger and Ed Pankau stepped up their intensity this week and carried their team to four wins and first place in their division.

With typical efficiency and leadership, outside hitter Herger and co-captain middle blocker Pankau led the Crimson in all major offensive and defensive categories.

For the four matches this week, Herger amassed 77 kills to Pankau's 71. Pankau had six aces to Herger's four. Herger contributed 47 digs, while Pankau dominated with seven solo blocks and 22 block assists.

On paper, Herger and Pankau were unstoppable.

However, what really distinguished their performances from other outstanding efforts were their determination and resolve in clutch situations.

On Saturday, in their final home game, Herger and Pankau were presented with a 10-12 deficit against Queens in the fifth and decisive game. Instead of collapsing under the withering pressure of the Queens assault, Herger and Pankau rose to the occasion.

"I remember telling Ed we were going to win the game," Herger said. "He just nodded his head and I knew it was time to finish our home careers with pride."