KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Michael Wacha pitched seven innings of four-hit ball, Garrett Hampson and Salvador Perez drove in runs and the Kansas City Royals beat the Minnesota Twins 2-0 on Sunday to complete a series sweep of their closest pursuers in the AL wild-card race.

Wacha (12-7) struck out seven while allowing just one walk is 100th career win. He got plenty of help from his defense, which turned two double plays and threw out a runner trying to score from first base in the first inning.

Kris Bubic handled the eighth for Kansas City before Lucas Erceg worked around a leadoff single in the ninth for his 11th save.

“It’s definitely a cool number for sure, something that was on my goal list coming into the season,” Wacha said of his milestone win. “It was definitely one of those days when (Bubic and Erceg) came in and slammed the door there.”

Simeon Woods Richardson (5-4) allowed two runs on three hits and two walks before he was pulled with one out in the fifth inning. Minnesota's bullpen did not allow a run the rest of the way, though it didn't matter with the offense getting shut out.

The Twins held a lengthy closed-door meeting after the game, and manager Rocco Baldelli issued a statement without taking questions, saying: “It’s an unprofessional series of baseball that we just played and that’s my only comment for the day. I’m not commenting on anything else. I don’t think anything else really has to be said.”

The Royals moved 2 1/2 games ahead of AL Central-rival Minnesota for the second wild-card spot.

“Just keep your head up. It's a long season. We all know it,” Woods Richardson said. "Just take one pitch at a time. Lean on each other. Rely on each other. This is where a team becomes a team. Rely on each other and go to work.”

The Twins had a chance to strike in the first inning, and finally build some momentum after dropping four of the first six games on their seven-game trip. But Jose Miranda, who had singled, was thrown out by about a foot trying to score on Trevor Larnach's double, and Royce Lewis eventually struck out to end the inning.

“Kind of get into some trouble there in the first. Big play at the plate,” Wacha said. “That was almost a little wake-up call, a little momentum-shifter, like, ‘OK, let’s not give them any more opportunities.'”

The Twins' only other hits off Wacha came from Christian Vázquez leading off the third and sixth innings, and both times the veteran right-hander was able to get a double play to prevent a runner from even reaching second base again.

When the Royals got their chance, they took advantage of it.

MJ Melendez drew a walk leading off the fifth, and Freddy Fermin and Maikel Garcia followed with singles to load the bases for Hampson, who hit a sacrifice fly to the warning track in left field. And when Tommy Pham walked to load the bases again, Perez followed with an RBI dribbler that traveled all of 80 feet down the third-base line for the only other run of the game.

“Those are the things where they happen for you, you feel good. When they happen against you, it's devastating,” Royals manager Matt Quatraro said, “because you can't plan for that. And that's fortunate for us that it happened.”

Royals: RHP Michael Lorenzen (left hamstring strain) is scheduled for a rehab appearance for Double-A Northwest Arkansas on Tuesday. He's been out since Aug. 27. ... LHP Will Smith (back spasms) threw a bullpen session Saturday and is “progressing fine,” Quatraro said. He went on the injured list Aug. 26.

Twins: 1B Carlos Santana was out of the lineup after leaving Saturday's game with an illness. Miranda started in his place.

Minnesota: RHP David Festa (2-5, 4.75) takes the hill to start three-game series against the Angels on Monday night.

Kansas City: RHP Brady Singer (9-10, 3.35) opens a three-game set against the Yankees on Monday night in New York.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1725828266033.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Royals starting pitcher Michael Wacha throws during the first inning of a baseball game against the Minnesota Twins Sunday, Sept. 8, 2024, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Royals starting pitcher Michael Wacha throws during the first inning of a baseball game against the Minnesota Twins Sunday, Sept. 8, 2024, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Michael Wacha pitched seven innings of four-hit ball, Garrett Hampson and Salvador Perez drove in runs and the Kansas City Royals beat the Minnesota Twins 2-0 on Sunday to complete a series sweep of their closest pursuers in the AL wild-card race.Wacha (12-7) struck out seven while allowing just one walk is 100th career win. He got plenty of help from his defense, which turned two double plays and threw out a runner trying to score from first base in the first inning.Kris Bubic handled the eighth for Kansas City before Lucas Erceg worked around a leadoff single in the ninth for his 11th save.“It’s definitely a cool number for sure, something that was on my goal list coming into the season,” Wacha said of his milestone win. “It was definitely one of those days when (Bubic and Erceg) came in and slammed the door there.”Simeon Woods Richardson (5-4) allowed two runs on three hits and two walks before he was pulled with one out in the fifth inning. Minnesota's bullpen did not allow a run the rest of the way, though it didn't matter with the offense getting shut out.The Twins held a lengthy closed-door meeting after the game, and manager Rocco Baldelli issued a statement without taking questions, saying: “It’s an unprofessional series of baseball that we just played and that’s my only comment for the day. I’m not commenting on anything else. I don’t think anything else really has to be said.”The Royals moved 2 1/2 games ahead of AL Central-rival Minnesota for the second wild-card spot.“Just keep your head up. It's a long season. We all know it,” Woods Richardson said. "Just take one pitch at a time. Lean on each other. Rely on each other. This is where a team becomes a team. Rely on each other and go to work.”The Twins had a chance to strike in the first inning, and finally build some momentum after dropping four of the first six games on their seven-game trip. But Jose Miranda, who had singled, was thrown out by about a foot trying to score on Trevor Larnach's double, and Royce Lewis eventually struck out to end the inning.“Kind of get into some trouble there in the first. Big play at the plate,” Wacha said. “That was almost a little wake-up call, a little momentum-shifter, like, ‘OK, let’s not give them any more opportunities.'”The Twins' only other hits off Wacha came from Christian Vázquez leading off the third and sixth innings, and both times the veteran right-hander was able to get a double play to prevent a runner from even reaching second base again.When the Royals got their chance, they took advantage of it.MJ Melendez drew a walk leading off the fifth, and Freddy Fermin and Maikel Garcia followed with singles to load the bases for Hampson, who hit a sacrifice fly to the warning track in left field. And when Tommy Pham walked to load the bases again, Perez followed with an RBI dribbler that traveled all of 80 feet down the third-base line for the only other run of the game.“Those are the things where they happen for you, you feel good. When they happen against you, it's devastating,” Royals manager Matt Quatraro said, “because you can't plan for that. And that's fortunate for us that it happened.”<h2>Trainer's room</h2>Royals: RHP Michael Lorenzen (left hamstring strain) is scheduled for a rehab appearance for Double-A Northwest Arkansas on Tuesday. He's been out since Aug. 27. ... LHP Will Smith (back spasms) threw a bullpen session Saturday and is “progressing fine,” Quatraro said. He went on the injured list Aug. 26.Twins: 1B Carlos Santana was out of the lineup after leaving Saturday's game with an illness. Miranda started in his place.<h2>Next up</h2>Minnesota: RHP David Festa (2-5, 4.75) takes the hill to start three-game series against the Angels on Monday night.Kansas City: RHP Brady Singer (9-10, 3.35) opens a three-game set against the Yankees on Monday night in New York.

⚾Wacha tosses 7 innings of 4-hit ball, Royals sweep the Twins 

Kansas Wesleyan Women's Volleyball split its two matches on the second day of the Kansas Wesleyan Coyote Classic inside Mabee Arena. The Coyotes dropped the first match of the day to William Penn in four sets - 26-24, 23-25, 23-25, 22-25, then swept Stephens College 25-11, 25-20, 30-28.

Against William Penn, the Coyotes had to battle back in every set, but come up short in the final tally.

Wesleyan led 17-14 in the opening set after a kill by <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/5c9e1747-62c0-45a5-a063-bbbe31190239?elinkdata=11976">Rylee Serpan</a>, but William Penn scored the next seven points to take a 21-17 lead.

The Coyotes trailed 23-20 before rattling off three straight points capped by <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/69d2eb3c-3233-40e5-a03e-a630497aa65a?elinkdata=11976">Josie Deckinger's</a> service ace. WPU scored the next point, but the Coyotes would close the set scoring the next three to win.

KWU trailed 14-10 in the second set but battled back tying it at 16 on Serpan's kill. Unfortunately, the Coyotes could not push out to a lead as the Statesmen took a 21-18 lead and led 24-21 before the Coyotes made it interesting on a kill by Serpan and a WPU error to make it 24-23 before WPU would take the set.

In the third, the Coyotes led 11-7 but this time William Penn made the run, take a 15-12 lead in the set. KWU got back and tied it at 18 on a block by <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/708c158f-d4a7-4f68-bc55-f815c8c9419f?elinkdata=11976">Gianna Adriaanse</a> and <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/03735c94-3243-4431-b10d-5dcb43a09a14?elinkdata=11976">Kate Bebout</a>, and took a 22-21 lead on a block by <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/987be220-8046-44a9-936d-ff3015c22ded?elinkdata=11976">Kyla Moore</a> and Serpan, but the Statesmen would score the final three points to take the set.

Neither team led by more than three points in the final set. Wesleyan led 7-4 early on, but William Penn again came back and grabbed the lead. KWU was relegated to playing catch up the rest of the set, but got no closer than a point several times.

The Coyotes had no answer for William Penn's Katlyn Jeter and Alyvia Johnson, who finished with 24 and 21 kills, respectively in the match.

Serpan had 17 for the Coyotes and Harris had 16 and Adriaanse had 13. Deckinger had 55 assists and 12 digs. <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/6d23f04c-174e-4e3e-ada3-42873cee5e32?elinkdata=11976">Kate Bebout</a> had three aces and 15 digs. <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/8b9a787c-72ed-4220-8e33-30785fe582f1?elinkdata=11976">Kori Arnold</a> had 19 digs.

Against Stephens, the Coyotes dominated the opening set winning 25-11, and finished things out getting the entire roster involved in the match, completing the sweep of the Stars.

The Coyotes rocketed out to a 10-3 lead in the opening set as Arnold dropped in a couple service aces during the run. Wesleyan extended the lead to 16-5 on <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/edb6d22b-5534-41c8-9d6e-a40880c851af?elinkdata=11976">Kyla Moore's</a> kill and led 19-6 and then again at 21-8. Stephens got it to 22-10 but got no closer the rest of the way.

The second set was close throughout, but Wesleyan held serve for the most part, only trailing early at 7-5 before running off five straight to take a 10-7 lead that included a string of three straight kills by Harris.

It was again tied at 13 when the Coyotes scored three straight to take a 16-13 lead. <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/da0d2385-3f40-44a1-b888-4817522647bd?elinkdata=11976">Madelyn Wolf</a> completed the set win for the Coyotes with a kill.

Wesleyan had to battle from behind several times in the final set. KWU trailed 7-4 early in the set, and after coming back and taking a 12-13 lead, Stephens regrabbed a 17-13 lead in the set.

The Coyotes trailed 21-15, and again at 22-17, before coming back and tying it up at 23 all on <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/9b54dee4-4316-412c-9fc7-60152b446f0d?elinkdata=11976">Sarah Girard's</a> kill. Stephens took a 24-23 lead and had a set point try, but an error tied it again. Stephens again took a lead before the Coyotes came back and tied it and took the lead at 26-25 on <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/b3b01fb6-422d-44ff-ad0a-2352b8723815?elinkdata=11976">Kate Bebout's</a> kill. Each team had tries to win the set before the Coyotes took a 29-28 lead on a kill by Serpan and another by Serpan closed out the match.

Harries had 12 kills to lead the Coyotes. Deckinger had 19 assists, only playing the first and part of the third set. Arnold had 25 digs.

Kansas Wesleyan Women's Volleyball split its two matches on the second day of the Kansas Wesleyan Coyote Classic inside Mabee Arena. The Coyotes dropped the first match of the day to William Penn in four sets - 26-24, 23-25, 23-25, 22-25, then swept Stephens College 25-11, 25-20, 30-28.Against William Penn, the Coyotes had to battle back in every set, but come up short in the final tally.Wesleyan led 17-14 in the opening set after a kill by <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/5c9e1747-62c0-45a5-a063-bbbe31190239?elinkdata=11976">Rylee Serpan</a>, but William Penn scored the next seven points to take a 21-17 lead.The Coyotes trailed 23-20 before rattling off three straight points capped by <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/69d2eb3c-3233-40e5-a03e-a630497aa65a?elinkdata=11976">Josie Deckinger's</a> service ace. WPU scored the next point, but the Coyotes would close the set scoring the next three to win.KWU trailed 14-10 in the second set but battled back tying it at 16 on Serpan's kill. Unfortunately, the Coyotes could not push out to a lead as the Statesmen took a 21-18 lead and led 24-21 before the Coyotes made it interesting on a kill by Serpan and a WPU error to make it 24-23 before WPU would take the set.In the third, the Coyotes led 11-7 but this time William Penn made the run, take a 15-12 lead in the set. KWU got back and tied it at 18 on a block by <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/708c158f-d4a7-4f68-bc55-f815c8c9419f?elinkdata=11976">Gianna Adriaanse</a> and <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/03735c94-3243-4431-b10d-5dcb43a09a14?elinkdata=11976">Kate Bebout</a>, and took a 22-21 lead on a block by <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/987be220-8046-44a9-936d-ff3015c22ded?elinkdata=11976">Kyla Moore</a> and Serpan, but the Statesmen would score the final three points to take the set.Neither team led by more than three points in the final set. Wesleyan led 7-4 early on, but William Penn again came back and grabbed the lead. KWU was relegated to playing catch up the rest of the set, but got no closer than a point several times.The Coyotes had no answer for William Penn's Katlyn Jeter and Alyvia Johnson, who finished with 24 and 21 kills, respectively in the match.Serpan had 17 for the Coyotes and Harris had 16 and Adriaanse had 13. Deckinger had 55 assists and 12 digs. <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/6d23f04c-174e-4e3e-ada3-42873cee5e32?elinkdata=11976">Kate Bebout</a> had three aces and 15 digs. <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/8b9a787c-72ed-4220-8e33-30785fe582f1?elinkdata=11976">Kori Arnold</a> had 19 digs.Against Stephens, the Coyotes dominated the opening set winning 25-11, and finished things out getting the entire roster involved in the match, completing the sweep of the Stars.The Coyotes rocketed out to a 10-3 lead in the opening set as Arnold dropped in a couple service aces during the run. Wesleyan extended the lead to 16-5 on <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/edb6d22b-5534-41c8-9d6e-a40880c851af?elinkdata=11976">Kyla Moore's</a> kill and led 19-6 and then again at 21-8. Stephens got it to 22-10 but got no closer the rest of the way.The second set was close throughout, but Wesleyan held serve for the most part, only trailing early at 7-5 before running off five straight to take a 10-7 lead that included a string of three straight kills by Harris.It was again tied at 13 when the Coyotes scored three straight to take a 16-13 lead. <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/da0d2385-3f40-44a1-b888-4817522647bd?elinkdata=11976">Madelyn Wolf</a> completed the set win for the Coyotes with a kill.Wesleyan had to battle from behind several times in the final set. KWU trailed 7-4 early in the set, and after coming back and taking a 12-13 lead, Stephens regrabbed a 17-13 lead in the set.The Coyotes trailed 21-15, and again at 22-17, before coming back and tying it up at 23 all on <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/9b54dee4-4316-412c-9fc7-60152b446f0d?elinkdata=11976">Sarah Girard's</a> kill. Stephens took a 24-23 lead and had a set point try, but an error tied it again. Stephens again took a lead before the Coyotes came back and tied it and took the lead at 26-25 on <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/b3b01fb6-422d-44ff-ad0a-2352b8723815?elinkdata=11976">Kate Bebout's</a> kill. Each team had tries to win the set before the Coyotes took a 29-28 lead on a kill by Serpan and another by Serpan closed out the match.Harries had 12 kills to lead the Coyotes. Deckinger had 19 assists, only playing the first and part of the third set. Arnold had 25 digs.

KWU WVB splits second day of Coyote Classic

LINDSBORG - Football coaches constantly preach the need for their teams to be successful in all three phases of the game - offense, defense, and special teams.

Kansas Wesleyan provided a template on how it should be done Saturday.

The defense and special teams scored two touchdowns apiece and the offense crossed the goal line four times as the Coyotes steamrolled Kansas Conference rival Bethany 54-16 at Ted Kessinger Family Stadium.

It was KWU's 10th consecutive victory and 12th in the last 13 games in the 114th game of the series. The Coyotes improved to 1-1 while Bethany fell to 0-2.

"The percentages tell you the chances of you winning the game go up if you get one of those," KWU coach <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/21a1dec3-3927-4695-9f49-8ca1230f5ac8?elinkdata=11954">Matt Myers</a> said. "You get a bunch of those (the percentages) go up astronomically. That's what you want out of a Saturday. It was good to see everyone execute and go out and get a win."

Tailback <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/676d9b7b-4b63-4fb9-ba8f-22acc1650442?elinkdata=11954">Luke Armstrong</a> had a gargantuan day with 168 yards rushing on just eight carries - an average of 21 yards per attempt - and included scoring jaunts of 90 yards in the first quarter and 30 yards in the third quarter. He also returned a kickoff 85 yards for KWU's first touchdown of the day in the first quarter.

Defensively <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/52b9cddf-825c-40ec-ad5b-36591fe91b3d?elinkdata=11954">Quatama Massaquoi</a> and <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/3ae1db9f-9ff7-4562-a383-6b9c96f86b2d?elinkdata=11954">James Preston</a> intercepted passes and returned them for touchdowns late in the second quarter. <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/469955b4-eea5-4b62-b81d-64bacb37114b?elinkdata=11954">Colby Klieman</a> also had an interception.

After a slow start that saw Bethany take a 16-12 lead early in the second quarter the Coyotes caught fire and it quickly became a raging inferno.

<a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/b78b426e-4fae-4a9e-aad8-ce9693d9e429?elinkdata=11954">Zarek Fewell</a> scored from 3-yard line for the Coyotes capping a 62-yard, seven-play drive that made it 19-16 with 5:39 left in the first half.

Bethany drove to the KWU 21 on its next possession, but Massaquoi made the play that turned the game around when he intercepted a Landry Shields' pass at the 5 and returned it 95 yards for a touchdown and a 19-16 lead with 1:35 left in the half.

<a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/1a1dfc08-7251-4e3d-a714-c3694ffd9a0a?elinkdata=11954">James Preston</a> quickly added insult to injury by intercepting a Shields' pass and returning 38 yards for a score with 21 seconds remaining that gave the Coyotes a shocking 33-16 advantage at the break.

"Quatama just went up and made an excellent play," Myers said. "The second one we were just making sure we get into halftime. I wasn't going to blow any time outs and give them the opportunity to get a first down and maybe try to go get points before half. Then Preston made a big play - it was just good to see."

The Coyotes led at halftime despite the fact Bethany ran 49 plays the first 30 minutes compared to 16 for KWU.

Armstrong's 30-yard touchdown run increased the lead to 40-16 with 10:50 left in the third quarter and preceded another special teams' gem two minutes later. <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/585c1b84-b041-4e41-a628-828c3e81cc98?elinkdata=11954">Dejaylon Beal</a> blocked a Bethany punt and Preston recovered it in the end zone that made it 47-16 at the 8:51 mark of the quarter.

<a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/3796669b-0c60-4a94-8059-4d18caa2fea1?elinkdata=11954">Byron McNair</a> hit <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/d29ae988-4deb-40d9-a691-b4e3a0855b25?elinkdata=11954">Latavion Staples</a> with a 16-yard touchdown pass for the final points of the game with 7:44 left. It came three plays after Klieman's interception that he returned 33 yards to the Bethany 42.

KWU missed a scoring opportunity on its first drive of the game when McNair fumbled at the Bethany 3 after a 15-yard run. McNair had hit <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/7d891f87-1d75-4577-b9c4-bd23cf68a37c?elinkdata=11954">Earl Gray</a> with a 46-yard pass to the Bethany 19 two plays earlier.

Klieman, the son of Kansas State coach Chris Klieman, had 10 tackles in addition to the interception from his strong safety position. <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/3d93abf2-d63a-45c3-8a8f-b256382d644a?elinkdata=11954">Daniel Cabrera</a> had a team-best 11 tackles that included a sack.

McNair was 6 of 14 passing for 163 yards, one touchdown and no interceptions. Gray and <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/33cba708-2313-4e8a-b28b-de85252b1bfd?elinkdata=11954">Nate Hays</a> had two receptions each, Gray for 95 yards and Hays 39 yards.

Shields was 17 of 31 for 274 yards with two touchdowns and the three interceptions. Michael Young caught seven passes for 122 yards. Bethany had 123 yards rushing on 44 carries - just 2.8 yards per carry.

The Swedes scored on the second play of the second quarter on Shields' 77-yard pass to Jacob Madu, but the Wesleyan defense suffocated them the rest of the game.

Myers was pleased with his team's resolve and resilience after losing to No. 14 Evangel in the season opener.

"We needed a big bounce-back performance and we got that today," he said. "We need to take this momentum and roll it into Southwestern next week."

LINDSBORG - Football coaches constantly preach the need for their teams to be successful in all three phases of the game - offense, defense, and special teams.Kansas Wesleyan provided a template on how it should be done Saturday.The defense and special teams scored two touchdowns apiece and the offense crossed the goal line four times as the Coyotes steamrolled Kansas Conference rival Bethany 54-16 at Ted Kessinger Family Stadium.It was KWU's 10th consecutive victory and 12th in the last 13 games in the 114th game of the series. The Coyotes improved to 1-1 while Bethany fell to 0-2."The percentages tell you the chances of you winning the game go up if you get one of those," KWU coach <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/21a1dec3-3927-4695-9f49-8ca1230f5ac8?elinkdata=11954">Matt Myers</a> said. "You get a bunch of those (the percentages) go up astronomically. That's what you want out of a Saturday. It was good to see everyone execute and go out and get a win."Tailback <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/676d9b7b-4b63-4fb9-ba8f-22acc1650442?elinkdata=11954">Luke Armstrong</a> had a gargantuan day with 168 yards rushing on just eight carries - an average of 21 yards per attempt - and included scoring jaunts of 90 yards in the first quarter and 30 yards in the third quarter. He also returned a kickoff 85 yards for KWU's first touchdown of the day in the first quarter.Defensively <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/52b9cddf-825c-40ec-ad5b-36591fe91b3d?elinkdata=11954">Quatama Massaquoi</a> and <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/3ae1db9f-9ff7-4562-a383-6b9c96f86b2d?elinkdata=11954">James Preston</a> intercepted passes and returned them for touchdowns late in the second quarter. <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/469955b4-eea5-4b62-b81d-64bacb37114b?elinkdata=11954">Colby Klieman</a> also had an interception.After a slow start that saw Bethany take a 16-12 lead early in the second quarter the Coyotes caught fire and it quickly became a raging inferno.<a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/b78b426e-4fae-4a9e-aad8-ce9693d9e429?elinkdata=11954">Zarek Fewell</a> scored from 3-yard line for the Coyotes capping a 62-yard, seven-play drive that made it 19-16 with 5:39 left in the first half.Bethany drove to the KWU 21 on its next possession, but Massaquoi made the play that turned the game around when he intercepted a Landry Shields' pass at the 5 and returned it 95 yards for a touchdown and a 19-16 lead with 1:35 left in the half.<a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/1a1dfc08-7251-4e3d-a714-c3694ffd9a0a?elinkdata=11954">James Preston</a> quickly added insult to injury by intercepting a Shields' pass and returning 38 yards for a score with 21 seconds remaining that gave the Coyotes a shocking 33-16 advantage at the break."Quatama just went up and made an excellent play," Myers said. "The second one we were just making sure we get into halftime. I wasn't going to blow any time outs and give them the opportunity to get a first down and maybe try to go get points before half. Then Preston made a big play - it was just good to see."The Coyotes led at halftime despite the fact Bethany ran 49 plays the first 30 minutes compared to 16 for KWU.Armstrong's 30-yard touchdown run increased the lead to 40-16 with 10:50 left in the third quarter and preceded another special teams' gem two minutes later. <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/585c1b84-b041-4e41-a628-828c3e81cc98?elinkdata=11954">Dejaylon Beal</a> blocked a Bethany punt and Preston recovered it in the end zone that made it 47-16 at the 8:51 mark of the quarter.<a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/3796669b-0c60-4a94-8059-4d18caa2fea1?elinkdata=11954">Byron McNair</a> hit <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/d29ae988-4deb-40d9-a691-b4e3a0855b25?elinkdata=11954">Latavion Staples</a> with a 16-yard touchdown pass for the final points of the game with 7:44 left. It came three plays after Klieman's interception that he returned 33 yards to the Bethany 42.KWU missed a scoring opportunity on its first drive of the game when McNair fumbled at the Bethany 3 after a 15-yard run. McNair had hit <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/7d891f87-1d75-4577-b9c4-bd23cf68a37c?elinkdata=11954">Earl Gray</a> with a 46-yard pass to the Bethany 19 two plays earlier.Klieman, the son of Kansas State coach Chris Klieman, had 10 tackles in addition to the interception from his strong safety position. <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/3d93abf2-d63a-45c3-8a8f-b256382d644a?elinkdata=11954">Daniel Cabrera</a> had a team-best 11 tackles that included a sack.McNair was 6 of 14 passing for 163 yards, one touchdown and no interceptions. Gray and <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/33cba708-2313-4e8a-b28b-de85252b1bfd?elinkdata=11954">Nate Hays</a> had two receptions each, Gray for 95 yards and Hays 39 yards.Shields was 17 of 31 for 274 yards with two touchdowns and the three interceptions. Michael Young caught seven passes for 122 yards. Bethany had 123 yards rushing on 44 carries - just 2.8 yards per carry.The Swedes scored on the second play of the second quarter on Shields' 77-yard pass to Jacob Madu, but the Wesleyan defense suffocated them the rest of the game.Myers was pleased with his team's resolve and resilience after losing to No. 14 Evangel in the season opener."We needed a big bounce-back performance and we got that today," he said. "We need to take this momentum and roll it into Southwestern next week."

🏈 Coyotes rout Swedes behind outstanding performances on all sides of the ball

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Bobby Witt Jr. hit a tiebreaking single in a four-run eighth inning, and the Kansas City Royals beat Minnesota 4-2 Saturday night to open a 1 1/2-game lead over the Twins for the second AL wild card.

Held to one hit over seven innings by Bailey Ober, the Royals rallied against Jhoan Durán (6-9) and Griffin Jax, winning their third straight following a season-high, seven-game losing streak.

Kansas City (78-65) is second behind Cleveland in the AL Central and Minnesota (76-66) is third after losing four of five.

Duran, who topped 100 mph with five of 17 pitches, entered with a 2-0 lead and gave up a one-out single to Freddy Fermin, then hit Robbie Grossman with a pitch. Kyle Isbel hit an RBI single and Jax relieved, trying for a five-out save.

Tommy Pham hit a slow four-hopper to Brooks Lee and reached on an infield hit as the shortstop barehanded the ball and bounced his throw past first. Pinch-runner Dairon Blanco, who had been on second, scored on the error.

Witt, who leads the major leagues with a .336 average, looped a single into short center as Isbel scored for a 3-2 lead. ML Melendez drove in Pham with a two-out single off Jax, who blew a save for the fifth time in 13 chances.

Daniel Lynch (1-0) allowed one hit in three scoreless innings and Lucas Erceg pitched a perfect ninth for his 10th save, his seventh since the Royals acquired him from Oakland in July.

Ober did not allow a runner to reach second, retired his final 15 batters, struck out seven and walked nine.

José Miranda hit a two-out RBI triple in the third and scored on Matt Wallner’s double off Alec Marsh, who gave up four hits in five innings.

Royals right-hander Dan Altavilla cleared waivers and was assigned outright to Triple-A Omaha.

Twins: 1B Carlos Santana left in the bottom of the sixth inning with an unspecified illness and was replaced by Kyle Farmer.

Minnesota RHP Simeon Woods Richardson (5-3, 3.95 ERA) starts Sunday against Kansas City RHP Michael Wacha (11-7, 3.50 ERA).

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1725761132757.png" alt="Photo Kansas City Royals" />
 <figcaption>Photo Kansas City Royals</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Bobby Witt Jr. hit a tiebreaking single in a four-run eighth inning, and the Kansas City Royals beat Minnesota 4-2 Saturday night to open a 1 1/2-game lead over the Twins for the second AL wild card.Held to one hit over seven innings by Bailey Ober, the Royals rallied against Jhoan Durán (6-9) and Griffin Jax, winning their third straight following a season-high, seven-game losing streak.Kansas City (78-65) is second behind Cleveland in the AL Central and Minnesota (76-66) is third after losing four of five.Duran, who topped 100 mph with five of 17 pitches, entered with a 2-0 lead and gave up a one-out single to Freddy Fermin, then hit Robbie Grossman with a pitch. Kyle Isbel hit an RBI single and Jax relieved, trying for a five-out save.Tommy Pham hit a slow four-hopper to Brooks Lee and reached on an infield hit as the shortstop barehanded the ball and bounced his throw past first. Pinch-runner Dairon Blanco, who had been on second, scored on the error.Witt, who leads the major leagues with a .336 average, looped a single into short center as Isbel scored for a 3-2 lead. ML Melendez drove in Pham with a two-out single off Jax, who blew a save for the fifth time in 13 chances.Daniel Lynch (1-0) allowed one hit in three scoreless innings and Lucas Erceg pitched a perfect ninth for his 10th save, his seventh since the Royals acquired him from Oakland in July.Ober did not allow a runner to reach second, retired his final 15 batters, struck out seven and walked nine.José Miranda hit a two-out RBI triple in the third and scored on Matt Wallner’s double off Alec Marsh, who gave up four hits in five innings.Royals right-hander Dan Altavilla cleared waivers and was assigned outright to Triple-A Omaha.TRAINER'S ROOMTwins: 1B Carlos Santana left in the bottom of the sixth inning with an unspecified illness and was replaced by Kyle Farmer.UP NEXTMinnesota RHP Simeon Woods Richardson (5-3, 3.95 ERA) starts Sunday against Kansas City RHP Michael Wacha (11-7, 3.50 ERA).___

⚾ Witt's go-ahead single lifts Royals over Twins

CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (AP) — Kaden Feagin scored on a 1-yard run with 9:34 to go, David Alano added a 43-yard field goal with 58 seconds left and Illinois rallied to beat No. 19 Kansas 23-17 on Saturday night.

Illinois (2-0) beat a ranked nonconference opponent for the first time since topping then-No. 22 Arizona State on Sept. 17, 2011. The Illini also avenged a 34-23 loss last year at Kansas (1-1).

Feagin scored after Luke Altmyer found Pat Bryant for 37- and 28-yard completions on the eight-play, 80-yard drive.

Altmyer completed 16 of 25 passes for 192 yards. Zakhari Franklin had nine catches for 99 yards, and Bryant had three receptions for 70 yards.

Kansas' Jalon Daniels was 18 of 32 for 141 yards with two touchdown passes and three interceptions.

Daniels scrambled and found a wide-open Lawrence Arnold in the end zone for 13-yard TD pass that give the Jayhawks a 17-13 lead with 4:57 to go in the third quarter.

Luke Grimm caught nine passes for 40 yards and a touchdown for the Jayhawks. Devin Neal ran for 101 yards on 14 carries.

The teams combined for 17 points in the final 3:05 of the second quarter.

Illinois led 13-10 at halftime thanks to Xavier Scott’s 28-yard return of an interception with 36 seconds left in the quarter. Scott read a screen pass attempt by Daniels and raced untouched into the end zone. It was Scott’s second interception of the game.

A 50-yard field goal by Alano with 2:27 to go in the quarter was set up by a spectacular one-handed, 42-yard catch by Franklin along the sideline with Kansas’ Damarius McGhee holding his other arm.

The Jayhawks went ahead 10-3 on a 3-yard TD pass from Daniels to Grimm in the back of the end zone with 3:05 remaining in the half.

Illinois: The Illini proved they could go toe-to-toe and beat a ranked opponent, a good sign with games against No. 8 Penn State, No. 10 Michigan and No. 7 Oregon coming up in the next six weeks.

Kansas: Despite the loss, the Jayhawks showed they have a potent running attack led by Neal and and a sturdy defense. Illinois’ offense scored only one touchdown — albeit the winning TD — gained just 79 yards on the ground, and had only 14 first downs.

Kansas made some major errors including a penalty that wiped out a touchdown, and the interceptions by Daniels that ruined drives and allowed Illinois to pull ahead late in the first half. The Jayhawks will most likely drop out of the Top 25.

Illinois: Hosts Central Michigan on Saturday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1725763065851.png" alt="Photo courtesy Kansas athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy Kansas athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (AP) — Kaden Feagin scored on a 1-yard run with 9:34 to go, David Alano added a 43-yard field goal with 58 seconds left and Illinois rallied to beat No. 19 Kansas 23-17 on Saturday night.Illinois (2-0) beat a ranked nonconference opponent for the first time since topping then-No. 22 Arizona State on Sept. 17, 2011. The Illini also avenged a 34-23 loss last year at Kansas (1-1).Feagin scored after Luke Altmyer found Pat Bryant for 37- and 28-yard completions on the eight-play, 80-yard drive.Altmyer completed 16 of 25 passes for 192 yards. Zakhari Franklin had nine catches for 99 yards, and Bryant had three receptions for 70 yards.Kansas' Jalon Daniels was 18 of 32 for 141 yards with two touchdown passes and three interceptions.Daniels scrambled and found a wide-open Lawrence Arnold in the end zone for 13-yard TD pass that give the Jayhawks a 17-13 lead with 4:57 to go in the third quarter.Luke Grimm caught nine passes for 40 yards and a touchdown for the Jayhawks. Devin Neal ran for 101 yards on 14 carries.The teams combined for 17 points in the final 3:05 of the second quarter.Illinois led 13-10 at halftime thanks to Xavier Scott’s 28-yard return of an interception with 36 seconds left in the quarter. Scott read a screen pass attempt by Daniels and raced untouched into the end zone. It was Scott’s second interception of the game.A 50-yard field goal by Alano with 2:27 to go in the quarter was set up by a spectacular one-handed, 42-yard catch by Franklin along the sideline with Kansas’ Damarius McGhee holding his other arm.The Jayhawks went ahead 10-3 on a 3-yard TD pass from Daniels to Grimm in the back of the end zone with 3:05 remaining in the half.THE TAKEAWAYIllinois: The Illini proved they could go toe-to-toe and beat a ranked opponent, a good sign with games against No. 8 Penn State, No. 10 Michigan and No. 7 Oregon coming up in the next six weeks.Kansas: Despite the loss, the Jayhawks showed they have a potent running attack led by Neal and and a sturdy defense. Illinois’ offense scored only one touchdown — albeit the winning TD — gained just 79 yards on the ground, and had only 14 first downs.POLL IMPLICATIONSKansas made some major errors including a penalty that wiped out a touchdown, and the interceptions by Daniels that ruined drives and allowed Illinois to pull ahead late in the first half. The Jayhawks will most likely drop out of the Top 25.UP NEXTIllinois: Hosts Central Michigan on Saturday.

🏈 Illinois rallies in the 4th quarter to beat No. 19 Kansas 

By ADAM COULTER Salina Post Contributor

The Sacred Heart Knights knew they were coming into their match-up hosting rival Ellsworth with a thin roster and only a handful of players with significant experience at the varsity level.

Despite that, the Knights fought hard the entire game, but turnovers and inexperience ultimately allowed the Bearcats to pull away and secure the opening night win 39-16.&nbsp;

Ellsworth won the opening coin flip and elected to start on offense. A 12-yard touchdown run by Tucker Goss capped off the opening drive and Bo Kyler's PAT gave the Bearcats an early 7-0 lead with 7:59 to go in the opening quarter.

Sacred Heart began a promising drive on its first offensive series, but a tipped pass led to an interception and the Bearcats cashed in with another touchdown. Landin Johnson rushed for two yards for his first of four trips to the end zone. Another Kyler PAT made the score 14-0 with :48 remaining in the opening frame.

The Knights answered for their first score at the 7:25 mark of the second quarter. A nine-yard pass from Maddox Wells to Noah Hines put Sacred Heart on the scoreboard. Bryson Gotti tacked on a two-point conversation to tighten the score to 14-8.

Despite the Knights closing the scoring gap, the Bearcats wasted no time in answering with another touchdown. Goss rushed from two yards out for his second trip to the endzone. The PAT was missed, but Ellsworth held a 20-8 advantage with 6:33 left before halftime.

On the ensuing kickoff, Sacred Heart fumbled the ball and surrendered possession back to Ellsworth. Just before halftime, at the 1:06 mark of the second quarter, Johnson rushed for 57 yards and his second touchdown. The PAT was once again no good, but the Bearcats were on top 26-8 at the intermission.

The Knights wouldn't score again until late in the third quarter. Meanwhile, Landin Johnson had two additional long scoring carries to put the game away. A 47-yard run at the 8:47 mark and another 57-yard carry with 6:16 remaining put Ellsworth on top 39-8.

With 1:36 remaining, a 3-yard rush by Elias Gordon and 2-point conversation by Tristen Hitchens made the score 39-16. Those would be the final points of the third quarter and, after a scoreless final quarter, the game.

Sacred Heart will try to even out its record next Friday with a second straight game at home to start the season. Plainville/Natoma will make the trip to Salina on Friday night.

Kickoff is set for 7pm with pregame at 6:45. Every Sacred Heart game throughout the season can be seen and heard with live streaming audio and video at <a href="http://salinapost.com/">salinapost.com</a>.

By ADAM COULTER Salina Post ContributorThe Sacred Heart Knights knew they were coming into their match-up hosting rival Ellsworth with a thin roster and only a handful of players with significant experience at the varsity level.Despite that, the Knights fought hard the entire game, but turnovers and inexperience ultimately allowed the Bearcats to pull away and secure the opening night win 39-16.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715807615208.jpeg" alt="Salina Regional Orthopedic &amp; Sports Medicine- Your home-field advantage starts here.jpg" />
 <figcaption>Salina Regional Orthopedic &amp; Sports Medicine- Your home-field advantage starts here.jpg</figcaption>
 </figure>Ellsworth won the opening coin flip and elected to start on offense. A 12-yard touchdown run by Tucker Goss capped off the opening drive and Bo Kyler's PAT gave the Bearcats an early 7-0 lead with 7:59 to go in the opening quarter.Sacred Heart began a promising drive on its first offensive series, but a tipped pass led to an interception and the Bearcats cashed in with another touchdown. Landin Johnson rushed for two yards for his first of four trips to the end zone. Another Kyler PAT made the score 14-0 with :48 remaining in the opening frame.The Knights answered for their first score at the 7:25 mark of the second quarter. A nine-yard pass from Maddox Wells to Noah Hines put Sacred Heart on the scoreboard. Bryson Gotti tacked on a two-point conversation to tighten the score to 14-8.Despite the Knights closing the scoring gap, the Bearcats wasted no time in answering with another touchdown. Goss rushed from two yards out for his second trip to the endzone. The PAT was missed, but Ellsworth held a 20-8 advantage with 6:33 left before halftime.On the ensuing kickoff, Sacred Heart fumbled the ball and surrendered possession back to Ellsworth. Just before halftime, at the 1:06 mark of the second quarter, Johnson rushed for 57 yards and his second touchdown. The PAT was once again no good, but the Bearcats were on top 26-8 at the intermission.The Knights wouldn't score again until late in the third quarter. Meanwhile, Landin Johnson had two additional long scoring carries to put the game away. A 47-yard run at the 8:47 mark and another 57-yard carry with 6:16 remaining put Ellsworth on top 39-8.With 1:36 remaining, a 3-yard rush by Elias Gordon and 2-point conversation by Tristen Hitchens made the score 39-16. Those would be the final points of the third quarter and, after a scoreless final quarter, the game.Sacred Heart will try to even out its record next Friday with a second straight game at home to start the season. Plainville/Natoma will make the trip to Salina on Friday night.Kickoff is set for 7pm with pregame at 6:45. Every Sacred Heart game throughout the season can be seen and heard with live streaming audio and video at <a href="http://salinapost.com/">salinapost.com</a>.

Sacred Heart fights valiantly but falls to Ellsworth on opening night 39-16

<a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/f0ac3035-14b4-48f9-8249-d100160cb22f?elinkdata=11910">Luke Armstrong</a> knew nothing about the century-plus old rivalry between Kansas Wesleyan and Bethany when he arrived in Salina prior to the start of the 2023 season.

It did not take long for him to get up to speed.

"You hear about it but you don't really know what to expect," said Armstrong who transferred to KWU from Palomar College (California). "I was actually surprised with how passionate it is and how much it moved everyone"

The Coyotes and Swedes play for the 114th time Saturday. Kickoff is 11 a.m. at Ted Kessinger Family Stadium in Lindsborg.

Armstrong's understanding of the rivalry has increased with time.

"We see (Bethany athletes) around town, there's some words exchanged," he said. "We hear the history and you can feel it out there when you're playing them. It's a different energy and we're just trying to make sure we sustain the dominance."

Wesleyan has won the last nine games and 11 of 12 against the Swedes including a 31-3 victory last season at JRI Stadium and the Graves Family Sports Complex.

Armstrong is eager to extend the streaks.

"I think it'll be fun to go play at their spot because it's only 20 minutes away and we get to set the tone," he said. "We're just challenging ourselves to play our best ball and not go into it too complacent. Just play our game and see what happens."

Armstrong, who hails from Carlsbad, California, moved from fullback to tailback this season. He became a reliable option in the passing game a year ago finishing with 16 receptions for 279 yards and a touchdown.

He also returned a punt 88 yards for a touchdown in KWU's victory over Friends last year.

Armstrong and <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/cf2058d3-ae82-4433-b6a1-a3693ab5a5f7?elinkdata=11910">Zarek Fewell</a> split time at tailback in the Coyotes' opener against No. 14 Evangel last Saturday at JRI Stadium. They combined for 149 yards rushing on 25 carries - Armstrong with 63 yards on nine carries that included a 20-yard touchdown run late in the first quarter.

Armstrong is not taking anything for granted despite KWU's recent dominance. The Swedes gave Avila a battle before losing 24-21 on a late field goal in their opener last Saturday in Kansas City, Missouri.

"I think it's good because we have a little bit of pride and confidence knowing that we have the athletes," he said. "That's also dangerous because if you get complacent, think you're going to smoke them then you come out and it's 10-0 and all of a sudden, you've got a game.

<a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/f0ac3035-14b4-48f9-8249-d100160cb22f?elinkdata=11910">Luke Armstrong</a> knew nothing about the century-plus old rivalry between Kansas Wesleyan and Bethany when he arrived in Salina prior to the start of the 2023 season.It did not take long for him to get up to speed."You hear about it but you don't really know what to expect," said Armstrong who transferred to KWU from Palomar College (California). "I was actually surprised with how passionate it is and how much it moved everyone"The Coyotes and Swedes play for the 114th time Saturday. Kickoff is 11 a.m. at Ted Kessinger Family Stadium in Lindsborg.Armstrong's understanding of the rivalry has increased with time."We see (Bethany athletes) around town, there's some words exchanged," he said. "We hear the history and you can feel it out there when you're playing them. It's a different energy and we're just trying to make sure we sustain the dominance."Wesleyan has won the last nine games and 11 of 12 against the Swedes including a 31-3 victory last season at JRI Stadium and the Graves Family Sports Complex.Armstrong is eager to extend the streaks."I think it'll be fun to go play at their spot because it's only 20 minutes away and we get to set the tone," he said. "We're just challenging ourselves to play our best ball and not go into it too complacent. Just play our game and see what happens."Armstrong, who hails from Carlsbad, California, moved from fullback to tailback this season. He became a reliable option in the passing game a year ago finishing with 16 receptions for 279 yards and a touchdown.He also returned a punt 88 yards for a touchdown in KWU's victory over Friends last year.Armstrong and <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/cf2058d3-ae82-4433-b6a1-a3693ab5a5f7?elinkdata=11910">Zarek Fewell</a> split time at tailback in the Coyotes' opener against No. 14 Evangel last Saturday at JRI Stadium. They combined for 149 yards rushing on 25 carries - Armstrong with 63 yards on nine carries that included a 20-yard touchdown run late in the first quarter.He also had a 34-yard punt return.Armstrong is not taking anything for granted despite KWU's recent dominance. The Swedes gave Avila a battle before losing 24-21 on a late field goal in their opener last Saturday in Kansas City, Missouri."I think it's good because we have a little bit of pride and confidence knowing that we have the athletes," he said. "That's also dangerous because if you get complacent, think you're going to smoke them then you come out and it's 10-0 and all of a sudden, you've got a game.

Armstrong fully in tune to rivalry with Swedes

Kansas Wesleyan's array of talent and depth was on display Friday night in the first home volleyball match of the season.

KWU swept Xavier (Louisiana) 25-17, 25-17, 25-18 to the delight of a large and loud student section in the Coyote Classic inside Mabee Arena. The Coyotes improved to 6-2 after opening the season with three matches in Hastings, Nebraska, and four more in San Antonio.

Wesleyan had a .277 hitting percentage on the night while Xavier (1-9) hit just .091 percent. The Coyotes also had six service aces and 46 digs.

"It seemed like we were a rollercoaster team but that evened out a little bit tonight," coach <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/7da40825-b62e-42ad-a8f5-83b9a9bd55ab?elinkdata=11932">Jessica Biegert</a> said. "We were super aggressive on the serving line, and I thought Kori (Arnold) did a great job getting some big digs up that they hit at us. Otherwise, I think we won by being aggressive."

<a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/03dad313-4bfb-4103-9aac-6540268f95e8?elinkdata=11932">Rylee Serpan</a> led the attack with 11 kills while hitting. 375 percent, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/dab71cb0-0991-4082-bb0b-023cb33a2857?elinkdata=11932">Gianna Adriaanse</a> had 10 and <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/c7be4987-f433-4f50-a079-50ca790bc146?elinkdata=11932">Kylee Harris</a> eight on a .500 hitting percentage. Setter <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/1ba5e53c-5d53-442c-97e7-7f93847ea8d2?elinkdata=11932">Josie Deckinger</a> had 22 assists. <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/f5216f63-b7f3-49db-9a74-f185cc28cdf9?elinkdata=11932">Kyla Moore's</a> four block assists and Arnold's 14 digs led the defense.

Biegert went to her bench often as 15 Coyotes saw action in the match.

"It was fun to see others step in and they didn't look nervous. They did their thing," she said. "I like playing different people, putting them in situations."

Biegert said she is using the non-conference portion of the schedule to see how different combinations might work.

"We've actually customized our lineup just because we have such an untraditional team - two (left-handed hitters), we have one true middle and we have a girl that plays all the way around," she said. "We've got some heavy arms and we've got some talented freshmen that will make their way in there here and there to save us when needed.

"We're just trying to find that rhythm and fine tune little things before we get into (Kansas) Conference (play). I love all the options that I have, that's a good problem as a coach."

KWU took a 5-2 lead in the first set and gradually pulled away - the biggest lead the final score.

The second set was tied 6-6 when the Coyotes took control with eight consecutive points - the last seven with Serpan serving. Xavier got within 21-17 but KWU closed it out with the last four points.

Xavier took a 4-0 lead in the third set, but the Coyotes quickly caught up. Leading 11-10 they pulled away with another 8-0 run, this one with <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/8f8fabc2-a416-44e6-804e-2bb8a65671b6?elinkdata=11932">Ella Schmid</a> serving on seven unanswered points. Schmid had four aces on the night.

Biegert and her team enjoyed being in Mabee Arena and the support of the student section, most of them members of the men's basketball team.

"It's tremendous," she said. "It's just fun to see the camaraderie on campus and we'll reciprocate when they're in season. It really it makes the campus a better community.

"Two weekends (on the road) back-to-back and then we're gone the rest of September so we're really just trying to take in all of this in - the crowd, the student section, the parents. We have a barbecue tomorrow. We're really embracing our only home weekend in September."

Kansas Wesleyan's array of talent and depth was on display Friday night in the first home volleyball match of the season.KWU swept Xavier (Louisiana) 25-17, 25-17, 25-18 to the delight of a large and loud student section in the Coyote Classic inside Mabee Arena. The Coyotes improved to 6-2 after opening the season with three matches in Hastings, Nebraska, and four more in San Antonio.Wesleyan had a .277 hitting percentage on the night while Xavier (1-9) hit just .091 percent. The Coyotes also had six service aces and 46 digs."It seemed like we were a rollercoaster team but that evened out a little bit tonight," coach <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/7da40825-b62e-42ad-a8f5-83b9a9bd55ab?elinkdata=11932">Jessica Biegert</a> said. "We were super aggressive on the serving line, and I thought Kori (Arnold) did a great job getting some big digs up that they hit at us. Otherwise, I think we won by being aggressive."<a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/03dad313-4bfb-4103-9aac-6540268f95e8?elinkdata=11932">Rylee Serpan</a> led the attack with 11 kills while hitting. 375 percent, <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/dab71cb0-0991-4082-bb0b-023cb33a2857?elinkdata=11932">Gianna Adriaanse</a> had 10 and <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/c7be4987-f433-4f50-a079-50ca790bc146?elinkdata=11932">Kylee Harris</a> eight on a .500 hitting percentage. Setter <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/1ba5e53c-5d53-442c-97e7-7f93847ea8d2?elinkdata=11932">Josie Deckinger</a> had 22 assists. <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/f5216f63-b7f3-49db-9a74-f185cc28cdf9?elinkdata=11932">Kyla Moore's</a> four block assists and Arnold's 14 digs led the defense.Biegert went to her bench often as 15 Coyotes saw action in the match."It was fun to see others step in and they didn't look nervous. They did their thing," she said. "I like playing different people, putting them in situations."Biegert said she is using the non-conference portion of the schedule to see how different combinations might work."We've actually customized our lineup just because we have such an untraditional team - two (left-handed hitters), we have one true middle and we have a girl that plays all the way around," she said. "We've got some heavy arms and we've got some talented freshmen that will make their way in there here and there to save us when needed."We're just trying to find that rhythm and fine tune little things before we get into (Kansas) Conference (play). I love all the options that I have, that's a good problem as a coach."KWU took a 5-2 lead in the first set and gradually pulled away - the biggest lead the final score.The second set was tied 6-6 when the Coyotes took control with eight consecutive points - the last seven with Serpan serving. Xavier got within 21-17 but KWU closed it out with the last four points.Xavier took a 4-0 lead in the third set, but the Coyotes quickly caught up. Leading 11-10 they pulled away with another 8-0 run, this one with <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/8f8fabc2-a416-44e6-804e-2bb8a65671b6?elinkdata=11932">Ella Schmid</a> serving on seven unanswered points. Schmid had four aces on the night.Biegert and her team enjoyed being in Mabee Arena and the support of the student section, most of them members of the men's basketball team."It's tremendous," she said. "It's just fun to see the camaraderie on campus and we'll reciprocate when they're in season. It really it makes the campus a better community."Two weekends (on the road) back-to-back and then we're gone the rest of September so we're really just trying to take in all of this in - the crowd, the student section, the parents. We have a barbecue tomorrow. We're really embracing our only home weekend in September."

Women's Volleyball opens Coyote Classic with sweep of Xavier

By JEREMY OBERMEYER Salina Post Contributor

The Southeast of Saline Trojans have never lost a season opener under Head Coach Mitch Gebhardt, and their series between Minneapolis has been particularly one-sided during his tenure, dominating it 8-2.

The Trojans weren’t about to let things change this year.

Grady Gebhardt got SES great field position with a big return on the opening kickoff, but after that, it would be the defense's turn to shine.&nbsp;

It would take until the 4:36 mark of the opening quarter before the game's first score as Gebhardt scored over the left side from 26 yards out.&nbsp;

From that point on, it would be all purple as the Trojans scored two more touchdowns in the first quarter, and three in the second and third.&nbsp;

Gebhardt would take four of those touchdowns for himself in the running game, cashing in from 26, 23, 53, and 75 to cap off a monstrous performance.

By the final whistle, Gebhardt had amassed 267 rushing yards, tacking on three catches for 22 more in the passing game.

Minneapolis scored on two Owen Just passing strikes to Brayton Peters, but it wasn’t enough as the game ended with a 64-14 victory for Southeast of Saline.

The Trojan offense amassed 443 yards of total offense, and while Gebhardt led the ground attack, Tucker Thaxton anchored Southeast in the receiving department with 49 yards on 4 catches.&nbsp;

Southeast (1-0) will be back in action next week as they travel to Clay Center to take on the Tigers (1-0) while Minneapolis (0-1) returns home to host Lyons (0-1).

You can watch the full broadcast of this game on-demand below.

By JEREMY OBERMEYER Salina Post ContributorThe Southeast of Saline Trojans have never lost a season opener under Head Coach Mitch Gebhardt, and their series between Minneapolis has been particularly one-sided during his tenure, dominating it 8-2.The Trojans weren’t about to let things change this year.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715807615208.jpeg" alt="Salina Regional Orthopedic &amp; Sports Medicine- Your home-field advantage starts here." />
 <figcaption>Salina Regional Orthopedic &amp; Sports Medicine- Your home-field advantage starts here.</figcaption>
 </figure>Grady Gebhardt got SES great field position with a big return on the opening kickoff, but after that, it would be the defense's turn to shine.&nbsp;It would take until the 4:36 mark of the opening quarter before the game's first score as Gebhardt scored over the left side from 26 yards out.&nbsp;From that point on, it would be all purple as the Trojans scored two more touchdowns in the first quarter, and three in the second and third.&nbsp;Gebhardt would take four of those touchdowns for himself in the running game, cashing in from 26, 23, 53, and 75 to cap off a monstrous performance.By the final whistle, Gebhardt had amassed 267 rushing yards, tacking on three catches for 22 more in the passing game.Minneapolis scored on two Owen Just passing strikes to Brayton Peters, but it wasn’t enough as the game ended with a 64-14 victory for Southeast of Saline.The Trojan offense amassed 443 yards of total offense, and while Gebhardt led the ground attack, Tucker Thaxton anchored Southeast in the receiving department with 49 yards on 4 catches.&nbsp;Southeast (1-0) will be back in action next week as they travel to Clay Center to take on the Tigers (1-0) while Minneapolis (0-1) returns home to host Lyons (0-1).You can watch the full broadcast of this game on-demand below.<figure>
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Gebhardt runs wild as Trojans steamroll Lions

By TYLER HENRY Lead Sportswriter - Salina Post

With an emphatic 55-13 victory over the Salina South Cougars, Salina Central has claimed Mayor’s Cup bragging rights for a fourth-consecutive season.

It wasn’t always pretty, but when it mattered most, the Mustangs got the job done.

This marks the first time since 1994-1997 that a class at Central has failed to relinquish the cup for four straight years, and the Mustangs did it in style by a combined score of 210-83.

South looked sharp early on under new head coach Christien Ozores, drawing first blood on a 27-yard touchdown pass from Landon Putman to Jaxon Myers.&nbsp;

The Mustangs would even the score on a Jack Gordon run, but South came right back, opening the second-quarter scoring with a rushing touchdown of their own from Aiden Anderes.

Down 13-7, Central tightened the screws and never looked back, scoring 48 unanswered points en route to a 55-13 rout.

Much of that damage was done through the air, where Jack Gordon found Isaiah White, Noah Peck, Bodie Rodriguez and Tyrus Young for a touchdown each.

In the waning minutes, the Mustangs also flexed the depth of their ground game, with long touchdown runs for both Cooper Reves and backup quarterback Griffin Hall.

Despite dropping the rivalry contest, both quarterback Landon Putman and receiver Jaxon Myers looked excellent on Friday night, and the Cougars showed real promise of brighter days ahead.

Meanwhile, the Mustangs showed that despite losing their top four receivers and feature back to graduation, the Central offense still holds explosive potential, and the defensive front is still a force to be reckoned with.

Both teams will need to cut down on penalties considerably to unlock their full potential, especially holds and unsportsmanlike conduct fouls which severely hampered both sides this week.

The Mustangs will travel to Ark City next Friday while the Cougars stay in Salina to host Maize South.

You can watch our full broadcast of the Mayor’s Cup on-demand below.

By TYLER HENRY Lead Sportswriter - Salina PostWith an emphatic 55-13 victory over the Salina South Cougars, Salina Central has claimed Mayor’s Cup bragging rights for a fourth-consecutive season.It wasn’t always pretty, but when it mattered most, the Mustangs got the job done.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715807615208.jpeg" alt="Salina Regional Orthopedic &amp; Sports Medicine- Your home-field advantage starts here." />
 <figcaption>Salina Regional Orthopedic &amp; Sports Medicine- Your home-field advantage starts here.</figcaption>
 </figure>This marks the first time since 1994-1997 that a class at Central has failed to relinquish the cup for four straight years, and the Mustangs did it in style by a combined score of 210-83.South looked sharp early on under new head coach Christien Ozores, drawing first blood on a 27-yard touchdown pass from Landon Putman to Jaxon Myers.&nbsp;The Mustangs would even the score on a Jack Gordon run, but South came right back, opening the second-quarter scoring with a rushing touchdown of their own from Aiden Anderes.Down 13-7, Central tightened the screws and never looked back, scoring 48 unanswered points en route to a 55-13 rout.Much of that damage was done through the air, where Jack Gordon found Isaiah White, Noah Peck, Bodie Rodriguez and Tyrus Young for a touchdown each.In the waning minutes, the Mustangs also flexed the depth of their ground game, with long touchdown runs for both Cooper Reves and backup quarterback Griffin Hall.Despite dropping the rivalry contest, both quarterback Landon Putman and receiver Jaxon Myers looked excellent on Friday night, and the Cougars showed real promise of brighter days ahead.Meanwhile, the Mustangs showed that despite losing their top four receivers and feature back to graduation, the Central offense still holds explosive potential, and the defensive front is still a force to be reckoned with.Both teams will need to cut down on penalties considerably to unlock their full potential, especially holds and unsportsmanlike conduct fouls which severely hampered both sides this week.The Mustangs will travel to Ark City next Friday while the Cougars stay in Salina to host Maize South.You can watch our full broadcast of the Mayor’s Cup on-demand below.<figure>
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Mustangs claim fourth-straight Mayor's Cup for first time since 1997

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Cole Ragans scattered four hits in six scoreless innings as the Kansas City Royals defeated the Minnesota Twins 5-0 on Friday night and traded places with the Twins in the AL Central and wild card standings.

The Royals now hold a half-game lead for second place in the division and the second wild card spot.

Michael Massey had three hits,&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/Royals/status/1832225056514080933">including a home run</a>, for the Royals.

Ragans (11-9) won for the first time since a 4-1 victory in Minneapolis on August 14, the Royals' lone win in Minnesota this season.

Zebby Matthews (1-3) took the loss. He allowed four runs on nine hits in five innings.

Ragans picked up his third strikeout of the game — and 200th of the season — to end the third inning, making him the fifth pitcher in Royals history to post 200 strikeouts in a season. He is the first Royals pitcher since Zack Greinke in 2009 to accomplish the feat.

The Royals plated a run in the third. Kyle Isbel drew a one-out walk and scored from first when Tommy Pham yanked the ball into the left field corner. The Twins answered with an almost identical play in the top of the fourth. Austin Martin ripped a two-out double to the wall in left, but Pham threw a relay to Bobby Witt Jr., who fired a strike to Salvador Perez to retire Kyle Farmer at the plate.

Massey then extended the lead in the bottom of the fourth on a 408-foot solo home run into the bullpen in right.

The Royals used their speed to add on in the fifth. Witt avoided a double play on a comebacker to Matthews and went to third on a single by MJ Melendez. Melendez stole second and both runners scored on a single by Hunter Renfroe.

Yuli Gurriel's sacrifice fly in the eighth scored the final run.

Royals: Renfroe was returned from the 10-day Injured List on Thursday's off day. In corresponding moves, RHP Steven Cruz was optioned to Triple-A Omaha and RHP Dan Altavilla was returned from the IL and designated for assignment.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Cole Ragans scattered four hits in six scoreless innings as the Kansas City Royals defeated the Minnesota Twins 5-0 on Friday night and traded places with the Twins in the AL Central and wild card standings.The Royals now hold a half-game lead for second place in the division and the second wild card spot.Michael Massey had three hits,&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/Royals/status/1832225056514080933">including a home run</a>, for the Royals.Ragans (11-9) won for the first time since a 4-1 victory in Minneapolis on August 14, the Royals' lone win in Minnesota this season.Zebby Matthews (1-3) took the loss. He allowed four runs on nine hits in five innings.Ragans picked up his third strikeout of the game — and 200th of the season — to end the third inning, making him the fifth pitcher in Royals history to post 200 strikeouts in a season. He is the first Royals pitcher since Zack Greinke in 2009 to accomplish the feat.The Royals plated a run in the third. Kyle Isbel drew a one-out walk and scored from first when Tommy Pham yanked the ball into the left field corner. The Twins answered with an almost identical play in the top of the fourth. Austin Martin ripped a two-out double to the wall in left, but Pham threw a relay to Bobby Witt Jr., who fired a strike to Salvador Perez to retire Kyle Farmer at the plate.Massey then extended the lead in the bottom of the fourth on a 408-foot solo home run into the bullpen in right.The Royals used their speed to add on in the fifth. Witt avoided a double play on a comebacker to Matthews and went to third on a single by MJ Melendez. Melendez stole second and both runners scored on a single by Hunter Renfroe.Yuli Gurriel's sacrifice fly in the eighth scored the final run.TRANSACTIONSRoyals: Renfroe was returned from the 10-day Injured List on Thursday's off day. In corresponding moves, RHP Steven Cruz was optioned to Triple-A Omaha and RHP Dan Altavilla was returned from the IL and designated for assignment.UP NEXT

⚾ Ragans throws 6 scoreless inning as Royals top Twins

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High School Sports LIVE STREAMS

2023 was a statement year for the Ellsworth Bearcats.

In addition to posting their first nine-win season since 1987, Ellsworth marched into the playoffs, winning two postseason games en route to a 2A quarterfinal appearance.

Much of that success came on the back of a huge senior class, which saw nine starters on offense and eight on defense graduate this fall.

While many around the 2A world have questioned what the Bearcats will be capable of this year, those concerns are not echoed in the Ellsworth locker room, where a veteran-heavy lineup is ready for their moment in the limelight.

“Our seniors last year did a lot for the program,” Bearcat head coach Josh Homolka said. “They put us on the map but we’re not starting over, those guys made a template and they’ve helped our guys grow. We’ll be playing a lot of juniors and seniors tonight and we won’t have to play many underclassmen.”

A quick glance at the Bearcat depth chart is enough to reassure the Ellsworth faithful, with program stalwarts like Cooper McGowan (DE/TE), Tucker Goss (MLB/FB), Dax Leiker (DB), Caleb Hays (DL), Tyler Conley (OL), and Ethan Tully (OL), all returning for another year.

That’s to say nothing of other talented returners like Landin Johnson and Jackson Minear, who will carry the brunt of the rushing load in the Bearcat offense this season.

“We have a lot of good football players who got some reps for us, but they had seniors in front of them, and they’ve been waiting for their turn,” Homolka said. “It’s exciting to see the work they’ve put in and knowing that they’ll get their chance this season.”

Perhaps the biggest change for Ellsworth will come at quarterback, where senior Will Donley takes the keys from three-year starter Will Cravens under center.

“Will knows our scheme, and he’s taken reps with the varsity and has watched Will Cravens for three years,” he said. “He’s been in some pressure situations for us and he’s done some good things since he was a freshman.”

While it may take a few weeks for the new-look Bearcats to settle into their new roles, Ellsworth fully expects to contend at the top of the NCAA, and in their district once again in 2024.

“We should continue to be pretty good on defense even if we look different, and we’re going to run the football well again this year,” Homolka said. “Maybe some of the little things change, but as of right now, we’re going to stay the same until we really see what our strengths are.”

Although much with this team remains to be seen, those in the Ellsworth locker room would caution everyone to discount them at their own risk.

“The sky is the limit for us and I think we’re going to be a lot better than people think we are this year,” Homolka said.

Ellsworth opens their 2024 campaign in Salina when they take on league rival Sacred Heart at 7:00

By TYLER HENRY Lead Sportswriter - Salina Post2023 was a statement year for the Ellsworth Bearcats.In addition to posting their first nine-win season since 1987, Ellsworth marched into the playoffs, winning two postseason games en route to a 2A quarterfinal appearance.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715807615208.jpeg" alt="Salina Regional Orthopedic &amp; Sports Medicine- Your home-field advantage starts here." />
 <figcaption>Salina Regional Orthopedic &amp; Sports Medicine- Your home-field advantage starts here.</figcaption>
 </figure>Much of that success came on the back of a huge senior class, which saw nine starters on offense and eight on defense graduate this fall.While many around the 2A world have questioned what the Bearcats will be capable of this year, those concerns are not echoed in the Ellsworth locker room, where a veteran-heavy lineup is ready for their moment in the limelight.“Our seniors last year did a lot for the program,” Bearcat head coach Josh Homolka said. “They put us on the map but we’re not starting over, those guys made a template and they’ve helped our guys grow. We’ll be playing a lot of juniors and seniors tonight and we won’t have to play many underclassmen.”A quick glance at the Bearcat depth chart is enough to reassure the Ellsworth faithful, with program stalwarts like Cooper McGowan (DE/TE), Tucker Goss (MLB/FB), Dax Leiker (DB), Caleb Hays (DL), Tyler Conley (OL), and Ethan Tully (OL), all returning for another year.That’s to say nothing of other talented returners like Landin Johnson and Jackson Minear, who will carry the brunt of the rushing load in the Bearcat offense this season.“We have a lot of good football players who got some reps for us, but they had seniors in front of them, and they’ve been waiting for their turn,” Homolka said. “It’s exciting to see the work they’ve put in and knowing that they’ll get their chance this season.”Perhaps the biggest change for Ellsworth will come at quarterback, where senior Will Donley takes the keys from three-year starter Will Cravens under center.“Will knows our scheme, and he’s taken reps with the varsity and has watched Will Cravens for three years,” he said. “He’s been in some pressure situations for us and he’s done some good things since he was a freshman.”While it may take a few weeks for the new-look Bearcats to settle into their new roles, Ellsworth fully expects to contend at the top of the NCAA, and in their district once again in 2024.“We should continue to be pretty good on defense even if we look different, and we’re going to run the football well again this year,” Homolka said. “Maybe some of the little things change, but as of right now, we’re going to stay the same until we really see what our strengths are.”Although much with this team remains to be seen, those in the Ellsworth locker room would caution everyone to discount them at their own risk.“The sky is the limit for us and I think we’re going to be a lot better than people think we are this year,” Homolka said.Ellsworth opens their 2024 campaign in Salina when they take on league rival Sacred Heart at 7:002024 Ellsworth Football Schedule 9/6: at Sacred Heart 9/13: at Republic County 9/20: vs. Minneapolis 9/27: at Lyons 10/4: vs. Hillsboro 10/11: at Halstead 10/18: vs. Beloit 10/25: vs. Southeast of Saline