LA CROSSE, Wis. - The Loras College men's wrestling team competed in their first dual of the season last night, taking down the Stevens Institute of Technology, 23-15, at the Battle in the Bluffs hosted by the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse. 

Starting at 125 lbs, the Duhawks gained an early lead thanks to junior Wiley Jessup's performance. A key ride out late in the third period secured an 11-3 major decision win and an extra team point. Aiden Evans (133 lbs) followed suit with a controlled 6-0 shutout decision.

The Ducks tied up the dual with back-to-back wins at 141 and 149 lbs, but the Purple and Gold responded accordingly.  At 157 lbs, junior Eric Kinkaid got Loras back on track with a 4-2 win over his opponent, who is currently ranked fifth in the nation.

Stevens picked up a tight decision win at 165 lbs in tiebreakers to tie the dual up, 10-10, with four matches left.

Yet, the Duhawks pushed themselves back into the lead with consecutive victories. Zeb Gnida (174 lbs) secured a 7-3 decision, before sophomore Landry Barker (184 lbs) went out and majored the No. 6 ranked wrestler in the nation, 13-4.

A bonus point victory at 197 lbs for the Ducks put the team score at 17-15, with Loras in the lead. It all came down to heavy weight.

Needing a win, junior Jonah Clark stepped up for the Purple and Gold with a big throw to pin his opponent in 1:49 and seal the dual.

The Duhawks step on the mat again when they welcome Buena Vista University on Thursday, Nov. 21, for their home opener. Action is set to begin at 7 p.m. from the Lillis Athletic and Wellness Center.