The University of Pennsylvania softball team defeated Harvard, 9-8, in game three of their series in Cambridge, Massachusetts on April 19. This marks Penn’s first victory against Harvard since 2019 and its first win in Cambridge since 2010.
The outcome is significant for the Quakers as it ends a long drought of wins at Harvard’s home field and breaks a multi-year losing streak to the Crimson. The closely contested match lasted nearly three hours and featured several lead changes.
Jade Montgomery led Penn’s offense by going three-for-four with a double and a home run. Caroline Putnam also contributed two hits and drove in three runs, including the go-ahead score that secured the win for Penn. The Quakers had a strong second inning, scoring six runs after Montgomery hit a solo home run to start the rally.
Harvard responded with small ball tactics in the third inning, narrowing Penn’s lead to one by bringing home three runners. In the fourth inning, Putnam cleared the bases with a hit into left field that extended Penn’s advantage to four runs. However, Harvard continued to challenge by scoring another three runs off a Hannah Ziecik home run in the fifth inning.
In the final inning, Harvard put two runners on base but was unable to score as Penn closed out the game. The Quakers’ ability to hold off late pressure from their opponents proved decisive.
Penn will finish non-conference play against Villanova at Penn Park on Wednesday with first pitch scheduled for 4:05 p.m.
