Since then the Crimson has come together as a team and has also seen key changes to its lineup. Co-captain Angie Francisco, who normally centers the team's second line, is out due to illness, and freshman goaltender Jessica Ruddock has since earned her spot as the team's top-goaltender.

"We are definitely in a better position now," Dunn said. "We are smoother now and are all a lot more confident with our roles. We're missing Angie, but coming off the Beanpot we have a lot of confidence."

Ruddock was not between the pipes the last time the Crimson faced Dartmouth and her 2.20 GAA and .906 save percentage may be the extra help Harvard needs to put itself over the top.

This is Dartmouth's first return to Cambridge since its November 1999 upset of the then defending national champions and Harvard's final game against the country's number one team before a likely playoff showdown.

It is also the Crimson's last chance to make a statement and prove to itself, Dartmouth and the league that Harvard hockey is back on top.

"We need to prove to ourselves and the league that we can win," Dunn said. "There is no doubt in our mind, but we need to show everyone else."