North Newton, KS – The Bethel Threshers delivered a stellar performance at Thresher Stadium on Saturday night, securing a decisive 33-17 victory over the visiting Saint Mary Spires to improve their record to 2-0 on the season.
Bethel got off to a quick start in the first quarter when quarterback DJ Ciers capped off a 16-play, 74-yard drive with a 1-yard touchdown run. The PAT was blocked, but recovered by behind the line and ran in by Ben Schmidt.
In the second quarter, Ciers struck again, this time with a 5-yard touchdown run, further extending Bethel's lead to 16-0 following another successful two-point conversion, this time with Ciers himself rushing it in. Despite a pick-six by Saint Mary's Keylin Hodge midway through the second quarter, Bethel maintained a 16-7 advantage heading into halftime.
The third quarter saw Bethel extend their lead to 19-7 thanks to a 28-yard field goal by Matteo De Hoyos. The Threshers continued to dominate on the ground, with running back Torriano Richardson leading the charge. Richardson finished the game with 140 rushing yards on 25 carries, including a 15-yard touchdown run early in the fourth quarter to push Bethel's lead to 26-7.
Defensively, Bethel made big plays including key interceptions from Rodrick Edwards, Robin Neely, and Jaric Woodley halting Saint Mary drives at critical moments. Tate Seabolt led the Threshers' defense with 11 total tackles, including one sack.
With the win, Bethel remains unbeaten as they look to continue their strong start to the season next week at Ottawa University.
