ARDEN HILLS, Minn. - The Bethel Royals football team kept the momentum rolling today, remaining undefeated on the season, and improving their record to 6-0. The Royals were able to shut down Gustavus winning today's matchup 20-0 in front of a large crowd of more than 4,500. With a great crowd and perfect weather on their sides the Royals did not disappoint. 

Today's victory was also a milestone for Head Coach Steve Johnson who reached career win 150. Johnson has shaped the character of this team over the past 22 years, and though that has been reflected by winning on the field, it is just as much about winning off the field. Johnson is very quick to acknowledge that the winning is a reflection of the quality of staff and athletes that he has been surrounded by and that it has been a team effort.

The Royals were able to completely shut down the Gustavus offense holding them to only 97 yards of total offense. The Gusties were able to accumulate 103 yards through the air, but on the ground the Royals put them in the hole rushing for -6 yards.

The Royals defense was able to keep producing big play after big play today coming up with 3 interceptions and 6 sacks. As a unit the Royals got key contributions from a wide variety of players. Leading the team in tackles was Billy Morgan (Jr., Rosemount, Minn.) who had 7.5 tackles. Brenden Flahrety (Sr., Shoreview, Minn.), Cory Svihla (Sr., Foley, Minn.), and David Vavra (Jr., Cambridge, Minn.) each grabbed an interception. While Jason Hofmeyer (Jr., Hospers, IA.), Trent Pearson (Sr. Shakopee, Minn.), Svihla, Brent Skoog (So., Long Lake, Minn.), Peter Sontag (Sr., Altoona, Wis.), and Andrew Johnson (Sr., Maple Grove, Minn.) each got to the quarterback for a sack.

The Royals offense put up points 3 times while in the red zone. Josh Aakre (Jr., Dawson, Minn.) ran it in from 4 yards out while, Jesse Phenow (Fr., Richfield, Minn.), and Logan Flannery (Sr.,Lakeville, Minn.) each scored on rushing plays from the 5 and 3 yards lines respectively.

With today's victory the Royals take the next step towards potential post-season play. They will face a true test next week from #4 St. Thomas who defeated Hamline today 61-17.