“We [have] practiced a lot more and gotten a lot more used to the lineup we have,” Docter said. “We have started running a faster offense, which has helped a lot. We’re executing like we should.”
Friday night’s win snapped a losing streak against the Big Green that dates back to 2009.
“It was a big victory for us,” Holte said. “It was exciting to come in as a freshman and be a part of that.”
The Big Green struggled with balance offensively, as junior middle blocker Elisa Scudder was the only player to reach double-digit kills. Dartmouth’s attack relied almost exclusively on support from freshman setter Kayden Cook, who had 35 of the team’s 44 assists.
For the Crimson, Docter was supported by Cooney and Wallace, who combined for 22 kills. Harvard also benefited from the combination of Schmidt and senior setter Beth Kinsella, who combined to register 44 of the Crimson’s 53 assists.
Harvard’s current three-game winning streak is its longest this season. After opening the season 2-9, the Crimson has gone 6-2, and currently sits in a tie for third place in the Ivy League standings.
“We have gained a lot of confidence being on a winning streak,” Holte said. “Confidence in ourselves is key, not focusing on the other side. The win means a lot to us.”