Arden Hills, Minn. – The Bethel University men's soccer team mounted a thrilling second-half comeback to defeat Saint Mary's (MN) 4-3 on Wednesday afternoon at Ona Orth Athletic Complex, remaining unbeaten on the season and moving to 5-0-2 overall and 1-0-0 in MIAC play.

Trailing 2-0 early in the second half, the Royals erupted for four goals in under 16 minutes—three of them from senior forward Ryan Swanda, who delivered the first hat trick of his collegiate career. Swanda's performance included two clutch penalty kick conversions and the go-ahead goal in the 69th minute.

Saint Mary's opened the scoring in the 32nd minute and added another in the 53rd to take a two-goal lead. Bethel responded quickly, with Swanda converting from the spot just two minutes later. Jordan Ross netted the equalizer in the 60th minute—his fifth goal of the season—off an assist from Carter Sheard. Swanda then added his second and third goals in the 69th and 71st minutes, the final one again coming from the penalty spot.

Saint Mary's added a third goal shortly before Swanda's final strike, but the Royals' defense held firm over the final 20 minutes to secure the win.

Bethel outshot the Cardinals 21-13 (9-6 on goal) and held a 7-2 advantage in corner kicks. The win keeps Bethel atop the MIAC standings early in conference play.

The Royals return to action Saturday as they travel to face Saint John's in another key MIAC matchup.