Mike Poeta Head Coach | University of Illinois Division of Intercollegiate Athletics Website
Mike Poeta Head Coach | University of Illinois Division of Intercollegiate Athletics Website
The Illinois wrestling team faced a challenging match against Michigan State, resulting in a 29-10 loss at the State Farm Center on Friday. The dual saw some notable performances from the Illini, despite the overall defeat.
Redshirt sophomore Danny Pucino, ranked No. 27 in the 141 lbs. category, gave Illinois an early lead with his victory over Michigan State's Jordan Hamdan, ranked No. 30. Pucino controlled the match and secured an 8-2 win through well-timed takedowns.
Edmond Ruth, a redshirt junior ranked No. 9 in the 174 lbs. class, returned to winning form with an overtime decision against former teammate DJ Shannon of Michigan State. Ruth overcame a deficit in the third period to tie the match at six before securing a 9-6 victory in overtime.
Graduate student Tony Madrigal also contributed to Illinois' score by earning a major decision win over Jaden Crumpler of Michigan State in the 133 lbs. category, ending with a score of 13-2.
The Fighting Illini will next compete against Nebraska on Sunday, February 4th, at Lincoln, Nebraska.
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