UNI Wrestling Beats Eastern Michigan, 24-15

UNI grabbed its first MAC win of the dual season, beating Eastern Michigan, 24-15 on Sunday, January 4, 2015. The Panthers grabbed seven of the 10 matches.

“It’s a win, but there’s a lot to work on,” said head coach Doug Schwab. “But those things can be corrected and they will be for next week.”

UNI got off to a quick lead with a forfeit at 125 pounds. EMU bounced back with two second-period falls. It was Gunnar Wolfensperger who got the spark going for UNI at 149 pounds. His decision win narrowed EMU’s lead, 12-9.

Jarrett Jensen tied up the team score when he took down the MAC’s No. 4 Brandon Zeerip in a 3-1 decision and was just seconds shy of earning riding time.

Cooper Moore regained the Panthers’ lead with an 8-4 decision over EMU’s Devan Marry. Curt Maas kept the Panthers rolling by dominating with a series of takedowns early in the 174-pound match. He went on to win 10-5 over Austin Geerlings.

At 184 pounds, Cody Caldwell jumped out to a fast start with a takedown and nearfall points and 2 minutes, 50 seconds in riding time. He went on to win 9-4 with 3:11 in riding time.

Cody Krumwiede entered the UNI dual lineup for the first time this season. He fell 10-4, and Anthony Abro earned 1:04 in riding time. UNI continued to lead 21-15.

Blaize Cabell secured the team win with a 9-3 decision over Gage Hutchinson.

“It’s not just going to happen over night, but guys are showing more fight,” said Cabell.

UP NEXT: This was the start of a home stretch for UNI wrestling. The Panthers host Northern Illinois 7 p.m. Jan. 9 for Defeat Dementia / Keith Young Night. Keith Young was a three-time All-American for UNI from 1949-51. Fans are asked to wear purple. UNI will return 2 p.m. Jan. 10 to host Buffalo. The first 500 fans will receive T-shirts from Hy-Vee.

UNI 24, EMU 15 – attendance 1,936 / referees: Curt Frost / Rick Stahl