In an electrifying showdown at the Hilton Coliseum in Ames, the Iowa State Cyclones emerged victorious over the Pittsburgh Panthers with a final score of 23-14. The No. 14 ranked Iowa State team showcased their prowess in a thrilling dual match against the No. 15 ranked Pittsburgh team, delighting the 4,019 fans in attendance.
The Cyclones dominated the mat, winning six out of the ten bouts, with three of those victories coming by bonus-point margins. They showcased their superiority in the takedown battle, outscoring their opponents 19-10, demonstrating their technical finesse and strategic prowess.
Both teams grappled with injuries, leading to the inclusion of several backups in the lineup. Despite the challenges, Iowa State’s lineup comprised primarily of redshirt-sophomores or younger, showcasing the depth and talent of their roster.
The match kicked off with a stellar performance by sophomore Ethan Perryman, who secured a resounding 21-8 major decision victory over Colyn Limbert at 125 pounds. Perryman’s six takedowns and commanding presence set the tone for the Cyclones’ success on the mat.
Continuing the momentum, Evan Frost delivered an impressive performance at 133 pounds, claiming his 10th consecutive victory with a dominant showing against Tyler Chappell. Frost’s strategic prowess and skill culminated in a quick pin in 4:45, adding to his season tally.
The Frost brothers continued to shine as Jacob Frost secured an 8-2 decision over Briar Priest at 141 pounds. Jacob’s workman-like approach and consistent performance mirrored his twin brother’s winning streak, highlighting the cohesive and formidable force of the Cyclones.
The match featured intense moments, such as Paniro Johnson’s hard-fought battle against Kade Brown at 149 pounds. Johnson’s aggressive stance was met with strong defense from Brown, resulting in a tight 4-1 decision in overtime, showcasing the grit and determination of both wrestlers.
As the competition intensified, Iowa State faced setbacks, including Carter Fousek’s valiant effort against Dylan Evans at 157 pounds. Despite Fousek’s resilience, Evans’ early lead proved insurmountable, resulting in an 11-3 major decision in favor of the Panthers.
The Cyclones maintained their lead throughout the match, with standout performances from Aiden Riggins at 165 pounds, who secured a commanding 14-4 win, and MJ Gaitan at 174 pounds, who clinched a hard-fought 4-2 decision over Luca Augustine.
Although the Panthers mounted a fierce comeback with three consecutive wins in the heavier weight classes, Iowa State’s early dominance secured their victory in a thrilling dual that captivated fans and showcased the talent of both teams.
Looking ahead, the Iowa State Cyclones face a challenging road ahead with duals against No. 11 South Dakota State and No. 5 UNI, promising more exciting matches and fierce competition as the season progresses.
With stellar performances, strategic maneuvers, and heart-stopping moments, the Iowa State Cyclones’ triumph over the Pittsburgh Panthers was a testament to their skill, resilience, and unwavering spirit on the mat. As the season unfolds, fans can expect more thrilling matchups and memorable moments from this dynamic team.
