Box Score

NORTHFIELD, Minn. - One day after putting up a record-tying 13 goals, the Bethel offense was unable to muster a tying goal, falling to St. Olaf 1-0, the winning goal scored late in the second half.

In a defensive battle for a playoff spot, the score remained 0-0 through 85 minutes of play. Neither team was able to get many chances, and the Royals were able to put three shots on goal in the second, but it was the Oles who struck for the game's only goal. At 85:09, Nathan Swenson took a pass from Jake Pueringer and potted his 10th goal of the season.

St. Olaf out shot Bethel nine to seven, but it was the Royals who put five shots on goal to the Oles three. Michael Voigtlander (Jr., Vadnais Heights, Minn.) led the team with two shots on goal and Zach Hurd (Jr., Portage, Mich.) also attempted two shots, one on goal. Swenson was the Ole leader in shots on goal with two and Alex Kuhl made five saves in the shutout.

St. Olaf picked up 12 fouls on the day to Bethel's six, but both teams managed to avoid being carded in a physical conference match with playoff implications. Each team attempted three corner kicks in today's game.

Today's game was the last of the season for Bethel, who finishes 10-6-2 overall and 4-4-2 in MIAC play. The Oles improve to 12-3-2 (6-3) and can clinch a playoff spot by winning their final game. For the Royals, it was the most successful season since 2004, and their 10 wins doubles the number of victories from last season.