MANKATO, Minn.  – The Bethany Vikings (5-11, 1-5) hosted the Saints of St. Scholastica (5-11, 3-3) and the Eagles of Northwestern (13-3, 7-0) in UMAC competition on Friday. The Vikings played tough in their opening match, but lost to the Saints 3-0 (22-25, 20-25, 22-25). In the second match, the Vikings played well and tested 12th ranked Northwestern, but lost 3-0 (19-25, 23-25, 21-25).
 
In match one, the Saints overpowered the Vikings with their strong kills and defense. The Vikings struggled to take the lead in games and couldn't find a way to finish the Saints off. Saints sophomore Espi Austvold had an impressive 35 assists in the contest.
 
Vikings sophomore Megan Rutt led the way with 11 kills, the only Viking in double-digits for kills. Three Vikings had double-digit digs with junior Jasmine Carlson leading the way with 14.
 
Despite the sweep, the Vikings played with a lot of heart, showing resiliency. Whenever they looked down and out they always came back to make it a game.

In match two, the Vikings put pressure on the ranked Eagles all night, making them work for every point. Eagles senior Lindsey Peterson stood out in the match with her monster spikes leading the team with 17 kills.
 
The best set was the second set that was filled with great volleyball play. The Vikings at one point led 19-15 before the Eagles went on a 10-4 run to take the set. Vikings senior Rachel Sorensen led the way in kills with nine and junior Jasmine Carlson led the team in both assists and digs.
 
The Vikings battled with the Eagles all night in a primetime matchup that also involved the Vikings students getting into it. Even when things were down, the Vikings never quit.
 
Up Next: The Vikings continue UMAC play as they go on the road to play Northland and Crown on Wednesday, September 27 in St. Bonifacius, Minnesota.
 
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MEDIA: If you need further information, please feel free to contact Dan DeWitt at 507-344-7856 or email ddewitt@blc.edu