PAINESVILLE, Ohio -- The #8 Lake Erie wrestling team hosted the #3 West Liberty Hilltoppers in a dual meet at the Jerome T. Osborne Center. They suffered a 26-13 loss on the night bringing their dual record to 6-6 on the year.
The Storm were without five of their usual starters for the tough matchup against the Hilltoppers. Despite this, the team showed their depth and grit by sticking with them the whole way.
Anthony Sagaris got things started at 125 and won a hard-fought decision victory against Alexander Crane, 7-3. Brendan Hamilton started strong at 133 but would ultimately fall by major decision 13-2. Core Gamet who ranks No. 8 at 141, took on Khyvon Grace who ranks No. 5. Gamet and Grace had the matchup of the night which went into a sudden victory situation. Gamet pulled off the clutch win and gave his team a 6-4 lead.
At 149,
Carsen Richards was unable to keep pace with the No. 12 ranked Nico Taddy and fell by major decision 11-0.
Austin Fietz battled at 157 over Armon Nettey and earned a 10-4 decision win.
Jack Haskin who remains undefeated on the year and currently ranks No. 2 at 157, moved up to 165 for the dual and took care of business, beating Breagan Pearson by major decision 13-4. With the win, the Storm extended their lead to 13-8.
Thomas Potter took over at 174 and faced Fabian Chavez. The two competed fiercely and the match went to sudden victory. Unfortunately, Chavez would come out on top 4-1.
Paul Scaramuzzino faced Ty McGeary, the No. 1 wrestler at 184 and got pinned at 2:43.
Brylan Clouse took on Mason Christian at 197 and fell by sudden victory 3-2, securing the dual victory for the Hilltoppers. At 285,
Dylan Norris took on No. 4 Francesco Borsellino. He battled hard against the All-American and took the match into the third period but was pinned at 6:55.
Lake Erie will be back in action Friday, February 9th at home to face the another ranked opponent. The #19 Tiffin University Dragons will be in town with the match set to begin at 7 p.m.
