BLAINE, Minn. – The Bethel University Women's Hockey team opened its 2026-27 campaign Friday evening, hosting Concordia University Wisconsin for the Royals' first official contest of the season and home opener. Despite a third-period equalizer, Bethel came up just short, falling 1-2 at the Bethel University Arena.
After a scoreless opening period, both teams continued to battle for the game's first goal in the second. The Royals generated offensive opportunities while senior goaltender Lexi Holman turned aside 14 shots in the period to keep Bethel within striking distance. The visitors eventually broke through on the power play at the 16:23 mark, taking a 0-1 advantage into the second intermission.
Bethel responded early in the third period. At 4:16, freshman defenseman Mckenna Borene found the back of the net for her first collegiate goal, evening the score at 1-1. Freshman forwards Addi Barone and Addi Barone were credited with assists on the play.
The Royals continued to push offensively, looking to take their first lead of the contest. However, the visitors regained the advantage at 11:15 of the third period, scoring what proved to be the game-winning goal.
Barone finished the evening with 31 saves on 33 shots faced, keeping the Royals in contention throughout the contest. Bethel matched its opponent with 33 shots on goal, while the penalty-kill unit successfully defended five of six opportunities.
The Royals recorded 11 blocked shots and finished 23-of-50 in the faceoff circle. Senior forward Malia Drury (McKinnon) led Bethel with 14 faceoff wins.
Bethel returns to their home ice Saturday, October 31, for the second game of its series, looking to even the weekend matchup. Puck drop is scheduled for 2pm at the National Sports Center.
