Crimson get set for icy rivalry

The Harvard men’s and women’s hockey teams will battle Boston University for Beantown bragging rights early next week in the opening rounds of the 54th and 26th annual Beanpot Tournaments, respectively. Ranked No. 17 in the nation, the Crimson men (11-8-2; 8-7-1 ECACHL) will take on the Terriers – owners of a national best seven-game win streak (at press time) – on Feb. 6 at TD Banknorth Garden following the B.C./Northeastern showdown. Harvard last won all the beans in 1993.

On Feb. 7, the women (10-7-2; 7-3-2 ECACHL) look to beat BU (10-12-4; 5-9-2 Hockey East) in order to advance to the championship round to face either Northeastern or B.C. the following week. A victory then would extend Harvard’s Beanpot title streak to eight.

Both games kick off at 8 p.m. The men’s contest will be broadcast live on NESN. Check http://www.gocrimson.com for scores and updates.