ARDEN HILLS, Minn.—The Bethel women's basketball team's eight-game win streak came to an end Wednesday night at the hands of the University of St. Thomas (13-2, 8-0 MIAC). The Royals (11-4, 6-2 MIAC) fell short despite mounting a courageous second half comeback, outscoring the No. 13-ranked Tommies (14-2, 9-0 MIAC) 32-21 in the final 20 minutes.

UST jumped out to a quick lead in the first quarter, outscoring Bethel 20-8. The shooting woes continued for the Royals as they shot just 25.8 percent in the first half. Meanwhile, St. Thomas shot 55.6 percent in the first and second quarters led by Hannah Spaulding, who scored 17 in the opening half.

The Robertson Center was rocking in the second half as Taite Anderson came alive and scored 13 in third and fourth quarters alone, doing most of her damage in the paint. The Royals shot it much better after the intermission break (52.2 percent), and their "D" also picked up, holding St. Thomas to just 35 percent shooting. UST never trailed in the game, and the large first half lead (42-19) allowed them to secure the victory.



Both Taite Anderson and Hannah Johnson finished the game in double figures scoring 19 and 12, respectively. Abby Miller added seven points and two steals, while Angie Kirchoff also made a noteworthy contribution with eight points. 

The Royals will try to start a new win streak on Saturday, Jan. 20, when they take on Carleton College in Northfield at 3 P.M.