ST. JOSEPH, Minn. — The Bethel University volleyball team battled through tough rallies and long defensive stands Wednesday night but came up short on the road, dropping a three-set match (25–18, 25–19, 25–19) to Saint Benedict inside a packed Claire Lynch Hall. The Royals showed grit, stringing together strong runs throughout the night but couldn't quite find enough offensive rhythm to close out sets down the stretch.

Junior outside hitter Sara Scherber led the charge with 11 kills on a .241 hitting percentage while contributing on both ends of the floor with two assists, a block assist, and 11.5 total points. Senior Peyton Howie followed with seven kills, an ace, and a block for eight points, while Hannah Penke added another seven kills and 11 digs to steady Bethel's offense.

Setter Sophia Rubio continued to showcase her versatility, dishing out 21 assists while also tallying 15 digs, a kill, and an ace. Grace Therrien kept the Royals alive in long rallies with 12 digs and four assists, and Lauren Hetfeld added nine digs in a strong defensive performance from the back row.

As a team, Bethel finished with 28 kills and 55 digs while hitting .095. Saint Benedict (17–6, 8–2 MIAC) countered with 44 kills at a .274 clip and just 12 errors, using steady serve receive and balanced attacking to control key points.

Now sitting at 13–10 overall and 6–4 in MIAC play, the Royals turn their focus to one final regular-season matchup — Senior Night on Friday at 7 p.m. inside Robertson Center Gym against St. Catherine University. The home finale carries major postseason implications, as the result will likely determine who earns hosting rights for next week's MIAC Playoffs.