By Joe Ruby
Writer
The men’s wrestling team evened its home record to 3-3 and improved to 5-10 overall by defeating out-of-conference rival Lock Haven (5-9) 26-13 last Friday. Derek Reber ’12 and Corey Lear ’13 each pinned their opponents, and No. 6 Kevin LeValley ’11, Brantley Hooks ’11, Rob Waltko ’11 and Jay Hahn ’11 also posted wins for the Bison.
Reber began the match in an exciting fashion, pinning Tyrus Nickoli in 4:24 to earn his third fall of the year. Alex Pellicciotti ’14 nearly held on to an early lead but eventually lost 12-10 in the first sudden victory period. Lock Haven took a 7-6 lead with a victory at 141 lbs.
LeValley put the Bison ahead for good with a 17-4 major decision at 149 lbs, improving his record to 23-1. Hooks won a hard-fought 3-2 decision, and Lear followed with his second pin of the year to give the Bison a commanding 19-7 lead in the match.
The Bald Eagles kept their hopes alive with a close win at 174 lbs, but Waltko and Hahn clinched the victory for the Bison with a 9-2 decision and a 14-3 major decision, respectively. Lock Haven took the final bout by decision.
The Bison, still looking for their first conference victory, finish the year with three EIWA matchups, taking on Army at home on Thursday before traveling to Brown and American on Feb. 19 and 20, respectively. The University will host the EIWA Championships on March 5-6.