Lindsborg, Kan. – The Bethany College Swedes put together a strong defensive effort and showed signs of offensive balance, but ultimately fell in straight sets to McPherson College (14-25, 21-25, 17-25) on Wednesday, October 1st, inside Hahn Gymnasium.
Despite the final score, the Swedes had several bright spots throughout the match, highlighted by their net presence and gritty play in the second set. Leading the charge was Chloe Linville, who turned in her most efficient offensive performance of the season, finishing with 5 kills on an impressive .556 hitting percentage. She also made a major impact at the net defensively, posting 2 solo blocks and 4 block assists to finish with 6 total blocks. Linville’s play set the tone for Bethany’s ability to slow down McPherson’s high-powered offense. Ashlynn Gehring contributed in multiple areas, recording a double-double with 13 assists and 10 digs while also adding 3 kills and 2 block assists. Her steady presence in both setting and back row defense gave the Swedes consistency through all three sets. Alivia Cheatham (4 kills, 3 block assists) and Blanca Ariciniega Palma (4 kills, 2 digs) chipped in key swings, helping Bethany spread its offense across the net. On the defensive side, Michelle Acevedo Ortiz paced the backcourt with a team-high 13 digs and added a service ace, continuing her role as one of Bethany’s most reliable defensive specialists. Danairis Ortiz Reyes and Trinity McCollister also made an impact at the service line, each tallying an ace to give the Swedes momentum at key stretches.
The first set saw Bethany trying to settle in against McPherson’s attack, but the Swedes quickly regrouped in set two. With Gehring distributing the ball effectively and Linville making her presence known at the net, Bethany battled point-for-point, forcing the Bulldogs to earn every rally. The Swedes closed the gap to just two late in the set before McPherson edged out the 25-21 win.
Bethany continued to fight in the third set, with Cheatham and Ariciniega Palma providing sparks offensively and Acevedo Ortiz anchoring the defense, but the Bulldogs pulled away late to secure the match.
Overall, the Swedes finished with 24 kills, 41 digs, and an impressive 12 team blocks—showcasing the team’s ability to defend and extend rallies. While the result didn’t go their way, the balanced contributions across the roster and the strong blocking performance gives Bethany a foundation to build on as KCAC play continues.
Up next, the Swedes are on the road at Bethel College taking on the Threshers next Wednesday, October 8th starting at 5pm for Devo and 7pm for varsity.
