ST. PAUL, Minn. – The Bethel University men's tennis team took a giant step towards their goal of making the MIAC playoffs with a convincing 8-1 win over Hamline University Friday afternoon. The Royals dominated in doubles play coming away with victories in all three matches and while Bethel's No. 1 and No. 6 singles players dropped just one point between them to give the Royals a quick five points.

"We just came out on fire in doubles and really dominated," said Royals head coach Drew Fernelius. "After getting up 3-0 it was quick sailing from there."

The Royals No. 1 doubles team won 8-3, while No. 2 won 8-1 and No. 3 came out with an 8-2 victory. In singles matches Brett Lizotte turned in a 6-0, 6-0 victory at No. 6 singles while Matt Schull won 6-0, 6-1 at No. 1 singles. Steve Schull won his first set 6-0 at No. 5 singles but fell 4-6 in the second set before rebounding for a 10-2 third set victory. Kolin Kiekhoefer and Luke Palmquist made quick work of their opponents also, at No. 3 and No. 4 singles, winning 6-1, 6-3 and 6-3, 6-1. Bethel's lone defeat came at No. 2 singles where Kirby Ronning fell 6-1, 6-4.

Bethel returns to the court Saturday afternoon as they host Concordia College at the Ona Orth Tennis Courts. The Royals are looking to lock up an MIAC playoff berth with a victory over the Cobbers (2-12, 0-7 MIAC). The match is scheduled to begin at 2 p.m., following the conclusion of the women's match at 10 a.m.