Each team played aggressively in the third period, but the Crimson showed its talent, racking up an 18-4 shot advantage even against a persistent Dartmouth offense.
“Defensively we came out strong in the third,” Kessler said.
Harvard’s offense also had a number of opportunities to score, but as the clock wound down it was still a 2-2 game. Then Pucci got a hold of the puck with a little over three minutes left in the game and took a slap shot on goal. Big Green goalie Mariel Lacina got the stop, but Ryabkina was there for the rebound and snuck the puck over the line to give Harvard the lead.
“It felt amazing,” the forward said. “I think that was one of the most fun times that I’ve had.”
Ryabkina’s goal turned out to be the game-winner as the Crimson held strong and secured the 3-2 victory over the Ivy League rival.
“In the end it was great to come away with a win,” Kessler said, “especially against Dartmouth.”