The University of Pennsylvania softball team defeated Harvard 9-8 in Cambridge, Massachusetts, on April 19, marking its first win against Harvard since 2019 and its first victory in Cambridge since 2010.
This result is significant for the Quakers as it breaks a long streak without a road win over the Crimson. The close contest lasted nearly three hours and saw both teams trading leads throughout the game.
Jade Montgomery led Penn’s offense with three hits, including a double and a home run. Caroline Putnam also contributed two hits and drove in three runs, including what proved to be the game-winning run. “Jade Montgomery is getting hot at the dish once again, going 3-for-4 with a double and a home run,” according to the team. “Caroline Putnam continues to hit her stride, collecting two hits and three RBI today, including the go-ahead, game-winning run.”
Harvard took an early lead with a two-run home run by Finley Payne in the first inning. Montgomery responded with a solo home run to start Penn’s second inning rally that produced six runs on five hits. The Crimson narrowed Penn’s lead to one by scoring three runs in the third inning using bunts and singles.
Putnam helped extend Penn’s advantage in the fourth inning by hitting into left field with bases loaded; rainy weather allowed her hit to clear all bases for another three runs. Harvard answered back with another three-run effort off Hannah Ziecik’s home run but was unable to complete their comeback attempt despite putting runners on base in the final inning.
Looking ahead, Penn will wrap up non-conference play against Villanova at Penn Park on Wednesday.
