The Kentucky Wesleyan College wrestling team returned to the mat after an extended Holiday Break on Tuesday afternoon. The Panthers fell to Midway 40-9 at Hunter Field House.
The Eagles are receiving national votes in the latest NAIA polls. The two teams exchanged forfeits at 125 and 133 pounds while the Panthers recorded a win at 141-pound bout. Gabe Adams produced two takedowns in the opening period to take a 4-1 lead over 18th ranked Kyler Adams, eventually earning a 5-3 decision. Adams did not allow an offensive point as Kyler Adams recorded two escapes and a point for riding time.
Owen Pulliam lost 12-5 at 157 pounds while Clay Critchfield mounted a furious comeback in the 165-pound match. Critchfield fell behind 8-0 after the opening period and trailed 8-2 after two. In the third period Critchfield produced a takedown with two nearfall points. At the end of regulation, the bout was tied 9-9. However, Tyler Norton recorded the sudden victory in the first extra period.
At heavyweight Karius Washington suffered a 3-1 loss to Byron Pierce. After a scoreless opening frame, Pierce took a 1-0 lead into the final period and outlast Washington in the end.
The Panthers will be in Huntingdon, Alabama on Sunday for three duals. The matches will begin at 11 a.m. and continue throughout the day.
