ARDEN HILLS, Minn. – The Bethel University women's soccer team celebrated Senior Day Saturday afternoon at Ona Orth Athletic Complex, honoring seniors Abby Wright, Jessica Oliver, Hannah Kvant, Bela Flores, Eva Patenaude, Taylor Sievert and Natalie Daniels prior to kickoff. The Royals battled Concordia-Moorhead but came up just short in a 2-1 MIAC loss.
The Royals struck first in the 14th minute when Eleanor Rundell found the back of the net for her first goal of the season. Sievert picked up the assist on the play, giving Bethel an early 1-0 advantage.
Concordia responded less than a minute later to even the match at 1-1. The score remained tied through the remainder of the opening half, with Bethel holding a 7-6 advantage in shots and earning four corner kicks.
The Cobbers took their first lead of the afternoon in the 56th minute, but the Royals continued to push for an equalizer over the final 35 minutes.
Bethel generated 10 shots in the second half while allowing Concordia just one. The Royals put six second-half attempts on goal but were unable to break through as the Cobbers held on for the 2-1 final.
Bethel finished the match with a 17-7 advantage in shots, including a 9-4 edge in shots on goal. The Royals also held a 10-7 advantage in corner kicks. Concordia's goalkeeper made eight saves, including six in the second half, to keep Bethel from finding the equalizer.
The Royals move to 1-4 overall and 0-2 in MIAC play following the setback.
Up Next: Bethel travels to Waverly, Iowa, Wednesday for a non-conference matchup against Wartburg College. Kickoff is scheduled for 7 p.m.
