BLAINE, Minn. – The Bethel University women's hockey team faced a big challenge on Monday night facing off against the high-powered and No. 3-ranked Adrian College Bulldogs in the Royals third game in the last four days. Bethel gave a spirited effort but in the end fell 2-0 to the Bulldogs. The defensive effort by Bethel was particularly impressive as the Bulldogs entered Monday nights contest leading all of NCAA Division III women's hockey with a 5.13 goals per game average. Adrian had been held to two goals or less only twice this season, which resulted in their only two blemishes, but unfortunately for the Royals they were unable to score any goals of their own on 22 shots on goal.

The Bulldogs boast a plethora of high scoring players on their roster, including five with more than 20 points on the season. The Bulldogs first goal however, scored just 1:49 into the game, was the first of the season and first of freshman Olivia Ziemba's career. The Royals defense, led by goalie Maggie Straka, would not allow another Adrian score until late in the second period when the Bulldogs took advantage of a power play opportunity. Both teams had four power plays a piece on the night but only Adrian was able to score. Bethel was able to hold Adrian's top two scorers, who rank No. 2 and No. 7 respectively in NCAA Division III in scoring with 27 and 32 points, to just a combined five shots and no points on the night. Bethel's Caroline Kivisto, Wendy Roberts and Sarina Goos combined for 16 of Bethel's 22 shots on goal but unfortunately could not get any in the back of the net. Maggie Straka made 30 saves in goal for Bethel.

The loss drops Bethel to 6-7-2 overall while Adrian improved to 14-2 in winning their 10th consecutive game. The Royals will return to MIAC play this weekend with a big series with the College of Saint Benedict. The Royals and Blazers will faceoff Friday night in Bethel University Arena at 7 p.m.