ST. PAUL, Minn. – Bethany Lutheran battled on the road Friday afternoon, but an early deficit and one big inning from Northwestern proved costly as the Vikings fell 6–1 in UMAC action.
Northwestern struck quickly in the bottom of the first, using a lead off home run and a two-out RBI single to build a 2–0 advantage before Bethany could settle in.
The Vikings threatened in several spots early, collecting hits from Olivia Sanborn and Avery Carlson, but Northwestern's defense kept Bethany from finding a breakthrough.
Bethany's lone run came in the fourth inning when Addie Ahern delivered the highlight of the day, launching a solo home run to cut the deficit to 2–1 and briefly swing momentum toward the Vikings.
Northwestern responded in the bottom half of the inning with its decisive punch. Capitalizing on an error and multiple extra-base hits, the Eagles plated four runs to stretch the lead to 6–1.
Emily Meyer got the start in the circle for Bethany before Joie Koll entered in relief. Koll helped stabilize things late, and the Vikings' defense held Northwestern scoreless over the final three innings.
Bethany had one of its best scoring opportunities in the sixth when Emily Doyle doubled and Bryn Weidner reached third, but Northwestern escaped the jam to preserve control.
Ahern's home run provided the offensive bright spot, while Doyle, Sanborn, and Carlson each contributed hits in the effort.
The Vikings are back in action tomorrow with a doubleheader against the Eagles starting at noon. The Vikings need to win these two game to secure home field advantage for the UMAC Playoffs.
