Hamline Box Score | UW-Stout Box Score

MENOMONIE, Wis. - Although Bethel did not compete in the annual Border Battle between Iowa and Minnesota schools, the Royals still played somewhat territorial matches today against Hamline University and UW-Stout.

The Royals' first match was a non-conference duel against the geographically closest MIAC school in Hamline University. Bethel sparred with the Pipers, coming as close as 20-25 in the first set, but eventually fell 19-25, and 18-25 in the second and third sets to lose 3-0.

Nicole Wriedt (So, Pewaukee, Wis.) led the Royals with 9.5 points on eight kills, a solo block, and a block assist. Kelly Otto (Sr., Plymouth, Minn.) also had eight kills for eight points. Tasha Simmons led the Pipers with 19 points on 19 kills.

Bethel rebounded to win their second match of the UW-Stout Triangular by defeating the hosting school 3-1. The Royals won the first two sets 25-19 and 26-24 before the Blue Devils nipped them 25-22 in the third set. The fourth and ultimately decisive set was no breeze either, as Bethel needed 26 points again in order to win.

Brianna Falck (Jr., DeForest, Wis.) had a career game with 15 kills and a solo block for 16 points. Not to be outdone, Otto had 12 kills, three solo blocks, and a block assist for 15.5 points. Amy Werner (Fr., Three Lakes, Wis.) also amassed double digit points with 10 kills, three solo blocks, and three block assists for 14.5 points. Betsy Naatjes (Jr., Sioux Falls, S.D.) recorded 42 of Bethel's 44 assists and also had a kill of her own.

The Blue Devils also had three players with double digit points, led by Kate Mikutowski with 21 points on 19 kills and four block assists.

The Royals next scheduled match is against St. Olaf on Wednesday, Oct. 7, in Northfield.