BLAINE, Minn. – The Bethel University women's hockey team skated to a 0-0 stalemate Saturday afternoon in a high-paced battle with St. Catherine University. The Royals and Wildcats had plenty of chances as they combined for 59 shots but outstanding defense and goaltending kept both teams off the scoreboard for all 65 minutes.

Bethel outshot St. Kate's 38-21 but the Wildcats goalie, Abbi White, made several spectacular saves to frustrate the Royals. Bethel outshot SCU 5-1 in the overtime, and had over a minute of a power play, as they peppered the Wildcats net but were just unable to get the game winner. Michelle Klimstra made 21 saves, including eight in both the second and third period, for Bethel. The shutout was the second of the year for the freshman and the first since the season opener against UW-Eau Claire. Both teams had plenty of power play opportunities but both came up empty. Bethel was 0-5 and St. Kate's was 0-4.

The tie puts the Royals alone in fifth place, holding onto the final playoff spot, with six games remaining. Bethel sits one point ahead of Augsburg and two points head of Saint Ben's and St. Kate's while being two points behind Concordia. The Royals have a tough remaining schedule as they will play second place St. Thomas next week followed by Saint Ben's and then undefeated MIAC leader Gustavus in the final weekend. The Royals will face the Tommies next Friday night on the road and host UST Saturday afternoon at 2 p.m.