Porta, Royals run past Oles 35-29

Mike Ludwig
October 21, 2006

ST. PAUL - Phil Porta rushed for 236 yards, including the game-winning 13-yard scamper, as Bethel University withstood St. Olaf 35-29 on Saturday.

Porta broke the MIAC's career rushing yards record in the process.

The Oles had their last drive stalled on a fourth-down interception with just under two mintues to play.

St. Olaf erased a 21-12 second quarter BU lead. The Oles got a six-yard TD reception from Evan Endsley just before halftime and led 26-21 after Andrew Schmiesing caught a 39-yard touchdown pass from Matt Penz with 10:34 to play in the third quarter.

Bethel quarterback Ben Wetzell regained the lead for Bethel on a 34-yard touchdown run to give the Royals a 29-26 advantage. Wetzell rushed for 141 yards on 22 carries.

After a Porta fumble, St. Olaf kicker Paul Fortman nailed a field goal from 30 yards to even the score at 29-29.

Schmiesing finished the day with seven receptions for 164 yards. Penz threw for 280 yards and two touchdowns.

The teams traded goalline stands. St. Olaf, trailing 21-12, was stopped on four goal-to-go plays from inside the Bethel 3-yardline. The St. Olaf defense stopped Porta, with St. Olaf leading 26-21 in the third quarter, on a fourth-and-goal from the Oles' three for a four-yard loss.

Contact media relations specialist Mike Ludwig at (507) 786-3834 or ludwigm@stolaf.edu.