It wasn’t enough to overcome Harvard, which defended its lead with successful relief pitching by co-captain Margaux Black and Brown.

The Crimson emerged from the second game of its doubleheader with a clean sweep.

“We got enough runs to string it together,” Brown said. “We were happy we came out on the winning end.”

HARVARD 3, COLUMBIA 0

Brown pitched the second no-hitter of her career to lead Harvard to a 3-0 victory over the Lions in yesterday’s opener. With 90 pitches, she allowed one baserunner on a first-inning error and struck out 12, securing her ninth win of the season.

“No-hitters are very tough to get,” Allard said. “She was strong. She executed well and was very zoned in...Rachel was outstanding today and was definitely a strength for us.”

The defense was strong on both sides, as Columbia pitcher Maureen O’Kane was able to match Brown through the first five innings to keep the scoreboard clear.

But she couldn’t hold off the Crimson quite long enough.

Francis sparked Harvard in the bottom of the sixth with a single to right field. Consecutive bunts by juniors Emily Henderson and Macadam helped Harvard load the bases.

Senior Stephanie Krysiak then had a sharp 2-RBI hit over second base to put the Crimson on the scoreboard. Sophomore Whitney Shaw finished the spree with a double over the shortstop, bringing Krysiak home to give Harvard a 3-0 lead and the game.

“We did enough and got it done,” Brown said. “We’ve learned that every game matters the hard way...so these games are huge for us.”