BLAINE, Minn. – Bethel University's women's hockey team turned in a complete performance Friday night at Bethel University Arena, earning a 4–1 victory over Saint Mary's University (Minn.) in MIAC play. The Royals opened the scoring late in the first period when freshman
Rylen Kissell found the back of the net at 18:31, with assists from
Afton Hulke and
Olivia Martin, giving Bethel a 1–0 lead heading into the second.
The Royals carried that momentum into the middle frame and quickly seized control of the game. Senior Julia Helget extended the lead at 9:42 of the second period, with assists credited to Olivia Martin and Amelia McQuay. Less than two minutes later, Sophie Martin, unassisted, added another goal at 11:10 to make it 3–0. Bethel continued to pressure throughout the period, and graduate student Kallie Tibbetts (Abrahamson) added the fourth goal of the night at 13:14, assisted by Myla Lubken and Beth Vincent (Velasco), sending the Royals into the third period with a commanding advantage.
Bethel focused on protecting its lead in the final period, relying on strong defensive play and steady goaltending from senior Ashley Gustafson (Hess). Saint Mary's was able to score late in the third period at 19:01, but the Royals' early offensive surge proved decisive. Bethel limited quality chances down the stretch and closed out the game with poise on home ice.
The victory highlighted Bethel's depth and balance, with contributions coming throughout the lineup and sustained pressure in all three zones. The Royals' ability to capitalize in the second period and maintain composure the rest of the way secured an important conference win as they continue MIAC play.
The Royals are back in action tomorrow, February 7th, to finish up the two-game series against Saint Mary's at 3pm in Winona at Saint Mary's Ice Arena.
