MANKATO, Minn. – The Bethany Vikings (11-7, 7-2) opened up the second round of UMAC play against the St. Scholastica Saints (10-7, 6-3) on Saturday afternoon. The gym was packed and the game did not disappoint. It was tight all the way to the end, but the Saints were victorious, winning by a final score of 90-85.
 
The Vikings scored first, but the Saints answered quickly and then took the lead. Scholastica held the lead for the majority of the first half, although it was never more than seven points. The Vikings regained the lead with four minutes to go, but a 9-2 run by the Saints gave them a 46-39 lead at the break.
 
Bethany shot 40.5% (15-37) from the field in the first half and 2-8 from three. They went 7-8 from the free throw line to stay within striking distance. The Saints were 52.8% from the field in the first half and 3-11 from deep. Trenton Krueger led all scorers with 11 points.
 
Out of half, the Vikings tied the game with 15 minutes remaining. Although never able to take the lead, Bethany was never far behind. Down by three with 45 seconds left, the Vikings had three good looks from behind the arc, but they were not able to capitalize. The Saints hung on for a 90-85 win.
 
Trenton Krueger posted his second straight double-double with 17 points and 11 rebounds. Brady Rose gave the Vikings 17 points and Jake Dale had 10 points and eight rebounds. Neil Eichten dished out a game-high nine assists.
 
 
Up Next: The Vikings will play at home against MLC on Wednesday, January 24. Tipoff is 5:30 PM.
 
###
 
MEDIA: If you need further information, please feel free to contact Dan DeWitt at 507-344-7856 or email ddewitt@blc.edu