“We have been more focused and using our time more effectively in practice,” Offsay said. “We are able to come out more focused and more intense. The game was a credit to Coach Farrar.”

Gerrity also praised Farrar, saying that he has been “making sure offensive personnel are in the most effective positions.”

ST. FRANCIS 22, HARVARD 11

The exhilaration of the Crimson’s first win was short-lived, as St. Francis reminded Harvard it is still the team to beat in the Eastern division.

“They are a very solid team,” Offsay said. “The team has very experienced players who are from Eastern European countries that are water polo powerhouses.”

The Terriers jumped out to a 4-0 lead and never looked back. Despite Gerrity’s best efforts—and the contribution of four goals—the Crimson was unable to narrow the gap to less than two throughout the game.

Though its offense started out slowly, Harvard was able to answer back with a trio of goals of its own, making the score 6-3 after the first period. Offsay scored three goals, while Marvin-Smith banged home two of his own. Senior Brian Choi and sophomore Alasandro Lazzarine each rippled the nets once.

Leading during the second half, St. Francis’s defense held the Crimson offense to just five goals, thereby securing the victory.

“St. Francis is probably the best team on the East Coast,” Gerrity said. “They have a number of very strong and talented players. I was happy with our performance and am excited to take them on again later in the season.”

After playing Queens and St. Francis, two teams currently at opposite ends of the spectrum, the Crimson was able to assess where it stands and prepare for the rest of the season.

“Overall, it was an interesting weekend,” Offsay said. “We were able to get our bearings.”

The team will host Navy in the first round of the ECAC Championships next Friday at Blodgett Pool.

—Staff writer Megha Parekh can be reached at parekh@fas.harvard.edu.