Julian Victoria scored a tech fall at 157 lb. over JT Nishikawa.
SAN FRANCISCO — The San Francisco State wrestling team scored five falls, a tech fall, and a major decision in a 43-9 win over visiting Menlo Oak Squad on Wednesday evening inside the Main Gym at Don Nasser Family Plaza.
The 125 lb. bout was tight throughout. Hayden Ancheta scored four takedowns but riding time proved costly and the Oak Squad, combined with a Gators forfeit at 133 lb., jumped out to an early 9-0 lead. Michael McGruder scored a major decision at 141 lb. to cut the lead to five, then nationally-ranked Lawrence Saenz scored three takedowns before earning SF State's first fall of the night at 149 lb. Julian Victoria used three takedowns and a pair of three-point near falls to score a tech fall that gave the Gators the lead for good. At 165 lb., Josiah Hurd scored a takedown and a four-point near fall in the first period and was in total control. He eventually earned the pin in 4:38. Gage Mettler needed just 1:41 for the pin at 174 lb. Kweli Hernandez-Maitre flexed his muscle with three takedowns and a reversal for a major decision at 184 lb. and the Gators' final two grapplers, Jairo Rivera Vazquez (197 lb.) and heavyweight Emilio Franco Sandoval both scored early takedowns and finished their night with pins.
"It felt really good to get our first win at home, and I think the guys have been waiting for this turning point," said Head Coach Jason Welch. "They've been working super hard, and I'm excited to start gaining momentum. It was awesome also to see a few freshmen get their first victories in front of a home crowd."
The Gators have a quick turnaround as they'll head to Redding to face Simpson on Thursday, December 7 at 6:30 p.m. The dual will be streamed live at
simpsonredhawks.com/live.
