RIVER FALLS, Wis.—It was heartbreak hotel for the Bethel University women's basketball team Tuesday night, as the Royals (2-2) suffered a 59-61 setback at the University of Wisconsin-River Falls. The Falcons (5-0) hit the go-ahead 3-pointer with 1:16 remaining in the game and despite BU having several opportunities to tie or go ahead in the final minute, Bethel was unable to convert and consequently left with a two-point loss.
 
The Royals trailed 32-33 at the midway mark, but managed to take a 45-41 lead heading into the final quarter. And despite leading the entire fourth quarter, UW-River Falls was able to compose a decisive 8-2 run in the final 4:14 that sealed the win for the hosting Falcons.
 
UW-RF, who stayed perfect on the season, controlled many facets of the game, as they outscored Bethel in the paint 40-20, in second-chance points 15-5, and in points off of turnovers 23-11. The Royals held the Falcons to 5.6 percent shooting (1-18) from outside the 3-point arc, however, and 53.3 percent (16-30) from the free throw line.
 
Hannah Niewald led BU with 11 points, three rebounds, and two assists in 31 minutes of play. Sydney Schultz and Shanni Moorse both finished in double figures as well, as each finished with 10 points. Molly O'Toole neared another double-double with eight points and six boards.
 
Bethel will finally play in their home opener next Wednesday, December 2. Consequently, that will also be BU's first conference contest of the 2015-16 season. The Royals and Wildcats from St. Catherine will tipoff in the Robertson Center at 7 p.m.