WINONA, Minn. – The Bethel University women's soccer team closed out its 2026 regular season on a high note Saturday afternoon, earning a 2-0 shutout victory over Saint Mary's University in MIAC action at Ochrymowycz Field.
The Royals controlled the offensive pace throughout the contest, out-shooting the Cardinals 22-7 while earning seven corner kicks to Saint Mary's one.
Bethel established its offensive presence early, recording 11 shots in the opening half. The Royals broke through in the 29th minute when Hannah Kvant found the back of the net off assists from Taylor Sievert and Jessica Oliver, giving Bethel a 1-0 advantage.
The Royals continued to apply pressure throughout the remainder of the first half, holding Saint Mary's to just three shots while carrying their one-goal lead into halftime.
Bethel maintained its offensive momentum after the break, recording another 11 shots in the second half.
In the 67th minute, Kvant struck again, scoring her second goal of the afternoon off an assist from Mia Backous to extend the Royals' advantage to 2-0.
Kvant delivered an outstanding offensive performance, recording 11 shots with six on goal while scoring both of Bethel's goals. Oliver added three shots and an assist, while Sarah Motalebi and Jordan Volstad each contributed two shots, including one on goal apiece.
Sievert, Oliver and Backous each recorded an assist, helping lead the Royals' offensive attack.
Bethel finished with 22 shots, placing eight on goal, while limiting Saint Mary's to seven shots and three on target. The Royals also held a commanding 7-1 advantage in corner kicks.
Defensively, Abby Wright played all 90 minutes in goal, recording three saves to secure the shutout. Bethel's defense limited the Cardinals to just one corner kick throughout the match.
The victory improves Bethel to 6-8-2 overall and 5-4-2 in MIAC play as the Royals conclude their 2026 regular-season schedule with a conference shutout.
Up Next: Bethel begins postseason play on Tuesday, Nov. 3, traveling to St. Olaf College for the MIAC Playoff Quarterfinals. Kickoff is scheduled for 2 p.m.
