WINONA, Minn. —Bethany Lutheran's NCAA Tournament opener in Winona featured competitive early innings, but Calvin's powerful fifth-inning surge turned the game as the Vikings fell 8-0.
Calvin grabbed control in the first inning, stringing together four hits to score twice and establish an early 2-0 lead. Natalie Bush's RBI double and Kendall Jordan's RBI single gave the Knights immediate momentum.
Bethany had chances to respond. Emily Doyle doubled in the first, and the Vikings mounted one of their best threats in the fourth when Bryn Weidner and Doyle each singled. However, Calvin's defense came through with timely outs, including a double play that halted Bethany's best opportunity.
Emily Meyer kept the Vikings within striking distance through much of the game, but the fifth inning proved to be the turning point. Calvin capitalized on defensive miscues, aggressive base running, and clutch hitting to erupt for six runs, to put the game out reach at 8-0 to secure regional-opening victory.
Joie Koll came on in relief, but Calvin's offensive pressure and Bethany's defensive struggles created too large a gap to overcome. The Vikings are still in it, but have to play perfect softball from here on in. They will play tomorrow, 5/15, at 1:30 pm against University of Wisconsin- Stevens Point.
