Northfield, MN.  – The Bethany Lutheran Vikings women's basketball team, after starting out the season with their best record since joining the NCAA, have now lost their second straight matchup; this one to the St. Olaf College Oles 76-73. The loss now puts the Vikings record at 10-3.
 
The Oles started quickly, going on a 6-0 run to start the game. But the Vikings would bounce back, and end the first quarter with a 17-10 lead. The Vikings would quickly extend that lead to ten points, but the Oles would rally and with about 2:30 left in the half the score was 28-28. The first half ended with the Vikings up 34-29. Emilee Gustin would lead the Vikings in the first half with 11 points and 100% field goal percentage.
 
The Vikings lead would then climb up to 11, and the Vikings would be able to survive a 7-3 run by the Oles to end the third quarter with a 58-48 lead. The Oles would come out strong in the fourth quarter, and in less than three minutes they were able to tie the score at 66. Then, the Oles would take over the game. The Oles would go on a 10-7 run and the Vikings would not be able to regain the lead, losing 76-73.
 
Defense was a factor in this defeat, much like the last one. The Oles would force 20 turnovers and record 2 blocks and 10 steals. The Oles would also have an advantage in defensive rebounds, edging out the Vikings 37-33. Shooting would also be a problem for the Vikings, the Oles shot 40% from the field and 22% from three compared to the Vikings 35% from the field and 15% from three.
 
The Vikings were led by Haley Sandin with 25 points, 4 assists, and 7 rebounds. Kenlie Pytleski and Emilee Gustin also played well, with both players recording 14 points and 7 rebounds.
 
Up next: The Vikings hope to stay undefeated in the UMAC on Wednesday, January 2 against the University of Minnesota Morris Cougars at 5:30 p.m. in Morris, MN.
 
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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