Top-seeded Harvard Rugby advanced to the 2026 NIRA Championship Game by defeating AIC 55-19 at Mignone Field on Saturday afternoon, extending its winning streak to 20 games and improving its record to 7-0 this season.
- Harvard enters the national title fixture riding an eight-game postseason win streak under high-stakes tournament pressure.
- The Crimson defense held AIC scoreless for over 41 minutes of game time bridging the first and second halves.
- Dartmouth awaits as the second seed in the championship match scheduled for November 21 at Army.
Neasa McLaughlin opened the scoring for Harvard with a try just over four minutes into the fixture, setting the tone for the three-time defending national champions, Harvard University reported. Gemma Ogoke sprinted up the sideline shortly after and fed a pass to Morgan Gibson right before the try zone, allowing the sophomore to record the second try of the afternoon.
Eseta Pale duplicated that phase six minutes later to secure the Crimson’s third try. Courtney Taylor and Maya Hilger also found the try zone before Gibson added her second of the day, giving the hosts a 38-0 lead at halftime.
Following a scoreless opening 11 minutes in the second half, Josephine Mignone scored with 28:52 remaining in the frame. First-years Molly Young and Teagan Barth then scored in quick succession to push the advantage to 55-0.
AIC responded with three late tries in the final 13 minutes of regulation to establish the final 55-19 margin and drop their season record to 4-3. The victory sets up Harvard’s fifth consecutive NIRA Championship Game appearance as the program targets its fourth straight national title at the Division I level.
| Team | Record | Result vs Opponent | Next Match |
|---|---|---|---|
| Harvard | 7-0 | Won 55-19 vs AIC | vs. Dartmouth (Nov. 21) |
| AIC | 4-3 | Lost 55-19 at Harvard | Season Concluded / Postseason |
The Crimson previously claimed national titles in 2019, 2023, 2024, and 2025. Harvard will compete against second-seeded Dartmouth for the 2026 NIRA National Championship, with the final set for Saturday, Nov. 21, at Army.
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