# Embry-Riddle Eagles Dominate on the Mat with Two Road Victories
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University’s wrestling team secured decisive victories against Westcliff University and Hope International in California on Saturday, December 20th, showcasing their strength and resilience on the road. The Eagles demonstrated a powerful performance, winning both dual meets and setting the stage for continued success as they head to the Reno Tournament of Champions.
Eagles Soar Past Westcliff University 34-10
The dual meet against Westcliff University began with forfeits at the 125lb and 133lb weight classes for Embry-Riddle. However, the team quickly rebounded, ignited by a victory from Yoshiya Funakoshi who secured a fall in 4:30 at 141lbs. At 149lbs, Axel Esparza continued the momentum with a dominant tech fall victory, 17-1.
Despite a setback at 157lbs, where ERAU dropped the match 8-0, the Eagles rallied to win the remaining five matches. Thomas Stadel claimed a 16-7 win at 165lbs, followed by a major decision from Daniil Gorshkov at 174lbs. Tuaatina Tuikolonghau narrowly secured a 9-6 victory at 184lbs, demonstrating grit and determination. The Eagles finished strong with back-to-back falls: Trenton Blomquist won at 197lbs in 2:28, and Kenneth Copley sealed the win at 285lbs in 5:21.
Did you know?-Tech falls occur when a wrestler wins by 15 or more points,demonstrating a significant skill advantage over their opponent.
Dominating Performance Against Hope International: 45-6
Embry-Riddle continued their winning streak against Hope International, achieving a commanding 45-6 victory. Similar to the first dual, the Eagles began with forfeits at 125lbs and 133lbs. Adam Stanley stepped up at 141lbs, earning a quick fall to put Embry-Riddle on the board. Axel Esparza once again proved his skill, winning by major decision 12-3.
the Eagles’ momentum continued with a lightning-fast victory from Jacob Briggs at 157lbs, securing a fall in just 51 seconds. Thomas Stadel followed with a 15-0 tech fall at 165lbs, further extending the lead. notably, Daniil Gorshkov, Tuaatina tuikolonghau, and Trenton Blomquist all received forfeits, showcasing the team’s overall strength. Kenneth Copley concluded the meet with a fall at 285lbs.
Pro tip:-Forfeits happen when a team cannot field a wrestler for a specific weight class, automatically awarding the opposing team points.
The Eagles will now travel to the Reno Tournament of Champions on Sunday, December 21st, at the Reno Tournament of Champions (Reno TOC) in reno, Nevada. This tournament will provide a challenging prospect for the Eagles to test their skills against a wider range of competitors and build upon their recent successes.
Reader question:-What do you think is the key to the Eagles’ success in these dual meets?
