Results

ARDEN HILLS, Minn. – The Bethel University men's tennis defeated Saint John's University in a thrilling, 6-3 match in their outdoor home opener Wednesday afternoon. The Royals enjoyed the 70 degree temperatures and took a huge step towards accomplishing their goal of making the MIAC postseason tournament, improving to 3-3 in conference play.

"It was a fun, exciting day," said Royals coach Drew Fernelius. "Playing outside on our home courts with a lot of fans and coming away with a big win was really great."

The Royals came out strong with a 8-0 victory at No. 2 doubles and a 8-3 victory at No. 1 doubles. Bethel nearly completed the doubles sweep but were unable to capitalize on a 7-6 match point at No. 3 doubles and fell 9-7.

The Johnnies momentum from the No. 3 doubles win was short lived, however as three Royals dominated their matches and quickly gave Bethel the five points needed for the victory. Freshman Matt Schull improved to an impressive 12-4 on the season at No. 1 singles with a 6-1, 6-2 victory. Senior Steve Schull won his 10th match of the year at No. 5 singles, 6-1, 7-5.

"Matt had another convincing win and really isn't playing like a freshman at all," Fernelius said. "He has been so solid for us at No. 1 while Steve has also been really solid at No. 5."

Luke Palmquist took a big win over a quality opponent at No. 4 singles in a straight set 6-2, 6-3 victory to clinch the match for Bethel. The Royals were not done, however, as both No. 2 and No. 3 singles went into the third set tie-break. At No. 3 singles, freshman Kolin Kiekhoefer came out on top 7-6 (7-5), 1-6, 10-8. Senior Kirby Ronning came out on the short end of a tough match at No. 2 singles 7-6 (7-5), 1-6, 10-6. Kent Schaller fell 6-1, 6-2 at No. 6 singles.

Bethel will play at Macalester College next Wednesday at 5:30 p.m. The Royals have three matches remaining against teams currently behind them in the standings as Bethel sits in a tie for third place. The top six teams make the MIAC tournament.