LEXINGTON, Va. – Looking to end the fall semester with a strong finish, the VMI wrestling team fell to the visiting Chattanooga Mocs by a 31-6 score Thursday night at Cormack Hall.
Despite trailing only 8-6 after the first four bouts, the Keydets fell in close decision losses at 157, 165 and 174 pounds to allow the Mocs to pull away to the final score.
“We fought hard tonight,” said VMI head coach Chris Skretkowicz. “I think they came in believing they would be in and out quickly but were surprised. We lost two matches by one point and one in overtime. I am not happy with the final result, but we are showing progress.”
Junior Dalton Henderson gave the Keydets a quick 3-0 lead at 125 pounds by topping Alonzo Allen by an 11-9 decision. Ahead 3-2 after the first period, Henderson finished the second period with a reversal and near-fall two to go into the third period with momentum and 9-6 lead. He solidified the win with two escape points in the final period for the close 11-9 win.
After two Chattanooga victories by major decision at 133 and 141, VMI senior Emmitt Kelly cut the UTC advantage to 8-6 with a 7-4 decision over Austin Sams. The pair battled to a 3-3 tie after the first period as each earned a takedown and escape. Following an uneventful second period, Kelly chose bottom in the third and earned an escape and quick takedown to build up riding time en route to the 7-4 win.
At 157 pounds, VMI freshman Neal Richards lost a close 4-2 sudden victory decision following a controversial Chattanooga takedown was confirmed with an official review.
The Mocs would go on to win the remaining bouts to finish with a 31-6 team victory.
After the Christmas furlough, the Keydets return to action in early January with duals at Sacred Heart (Jan. 2) and Hofstra (Jan. 3), where VMI will also take on Bloomsburg.
Chattanooga 31, VMI 6
Dec. 10, 2015 – Cormack Hall
Lexington, Va.
VMI-CHAT
