Box Score

ST. PAUL – One of the most intense matches of the 2012 season, Bethel University's volleyball team fought back to defeat St. Catherine 3-2 in a barn-burner with significant MIAC postseason implications. The Royals (18-10, 5-3 MIAC) won the first game before the Wildcats (13-16, 3-6 MIAC) went ahead 2-1 after the third set. BU responded with 25-13 and 15-11 wins in game four and five, respectively, to take down SCU on the road. With the win Bethel is now tied for third with Carleton and Concordia, just two back of Saint Benedict – who the Royals see next week.
 
Three players recorded double-digit kills Friday night, as Amy Baumetz (Three Lakes, Wis.) led BU with 16 kills and a .341 attacking percentage. Baumetz also had a hand in 10 blocks. Caitie Helle (Sr., Onamia, Minn.) was just as sensational on the block, jumping in on 11 BU stops, alongside 13 kills and three service aces. Nicole Deberry (Fr., Libertyville, Ill.) also finished with 13 slams and ten digs Friday.
 
Freshman Paige Van Wyk () stepped in nicely for the injured Cierra Nickel (So., Sanborn, Minn.), finishing the night 45 assists and 21 digs in five frames. Val Smith (Sr., Alexandria, Minn.) also contributed to the dig parade with 23 of her own. Kali Johnson (Fr., Tacoma, Wash.) also added 18 digs.
 
The Royals now welcome Macalester Saturday afternoon to the Robertson Center Gym for another MIAC affair that is set to take place at 3 p.m. Live stats and webcasts will be available here for Saturday's match.