Zach Jimenez posted a 5-1 record in the 184-pound weight class last weekend, helping SF State earn a split in a pair of dual meets, before collecting a second-place individual finish at the California Collegiate Open. On Friday, Jimenez defeated Cal State Bakersfield’s Reuben Franklin in a tough 7-6 decision, pulling off an escape in the waning seconds as the Gators rallied for a 20-16 triumph for their first team victory over the Roadrunners since 1974. The SF State junior then scored a 15-6 win by major decision over Kyle Matthews of Cal Baptist in the Gators’ 22-10 loss to the Lancers. Jimenez continued his winning ways on Saturday at the California Collegiates, notching three straight victories to reach the championship finals in his division. The Chualar, Calif., product opened with a 12-5 decision over Cal Baptist’s Jacob Fry, followed by a 7-1 triumph over unattached Kenneth Packard. After engineering a 5-3 win over Brian Engdahl of Division I Oregon State in the semifinals, Jimenez had his title aspirations derailed in the championship bout, however, as another DI grappler, Jake Swartz of Boise State claimed the crown with a 9-3 decision. Despite the setback, Jimenez managed to even his record at 10-10 as the Gators head into postseason competition.
