No 10-ranked Ashland University wrestling picked up its first dual victory of the season at home on Friday (Dec. 8) night in a 24-13 effort over West Liberty.
Two Eagles won by pin and four by decision. Five of the six were wins came from underclassmen.
The wins by fall were courtesy of sophomores Bret Romanzak (No. 3 at 165 pounds) and Christian Price (No. 10 at 174). Romanzak pinned his opponent in 3:56, and Price in 1:55.
"The pin was my goal when I stepped out," Romanzak said. "Whenever the opportunity came, I was ready to capitalize."
Freshman Dustin Marteney earned a 2-1 win in nail-biting fashion. He stayed on top of his opponent for the entire third period to prevent him from picking up an escape point.
"When you're tired and the guy is almost out," Ashland head coach Josh Hutchens said, "that's when your mental toughness is tested. So that was huge from him to be able to do that."
Freshmen Carson Speelman (141) and Tristen Weirich (285) also won by scores of 3-1 and 10-4, respectively.
"It's a total team effort to get everyone to buy in," Romanzak said. "Whether you're a freshman, a starter or a backup, coming in everyday with the intent to get better and improve individually and as a team gets us on track and ready for spring time."
No. 1-ranked 197-pound senior Luke Cramer beat his opponent, 4-2.
The Eagles (1-1) travel to Indianapolis, Ind., for the Midwest Classic on Dec. 16-17. Their next home dual is Jan. 20 at 7 p.m. vs. Lake Erie.
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