Ashland University wrestling took on the University of Pitt-Johnstown in a Dual Meet Thursday night at Kate’s Gymnasium.

The No. 19-ranked Eagles fell to the No. 7-ranked Pitt-Johnston 28-13.

“It was a tough match,” said head coach Josh Hutchens. “We did not do as well as I had hoped we would perform from top to bottom.”

Pitt-Johnstown has a historically competitive wrestling program giving AU a strong squad to face at the opening of their season.

“It’s a good way to start the season when you’re one of the toughest teams in the country,” said Hutchens.

Despite falling to the Mountain Cats, Hutchens said his team was competitive, only losing some matches by a few points proving they had opportunities to win those matches and that they will learn from their mistakes.

In his first dual meet of his collegiate career, AU freshman Jerry Fenner had a strong showing against Jim Harrison, after defeating the Mountain Cat in an 11-3 major decision.

“He really pushed the pace to try and get some of those extra points at the end,” said Hutchens.

Senior Zeb Beam began his dual quickly bringing down Pitt-Johnstown’s Devin Austin 2-0. Despite struggling throughout the match, Beam was able to come out on top, defeating his opponent in a decision 9-7 decision.

“He kind of let it get away from him at first but then went back and got it,” said Hutchens. “It should not have been that close in the first place. He kind of relaxed and got flatfooted. Those things happen. It was really good to stay mentally focused enough to come back and get the take down in overtime. It’s a good sign of mental toughness.”

In the eighth dual of the night, Ashland’s Brandon O’Neill faced Pitt-Johnstown’s Travis McKillop, ranked No. 4 in the nation. It was a quick match as McKillcop defeated O’Neill by a pin.

Still ranked No. 1 in the nation, Joe Brant took on Pitt-Johnston athlete Zac Cryoce. Brant did not disappoint, quickly defeating his opponent by a pin.

Brant’s continued success allows the coaching staff to maintain a significant amount of satisfaction. Hutchens did not have much to say about his quick defeat at the meet.

“He’s good,” said Hutchens. “Nothing much you can bad about him.

The Eagles will compete next at the Midwest Classic in Indianapolis, Ind. On Dec. 19.

“A lot of the top teams in the country will be there,” said Hutchens. “We usually use it as kind of a measuring stick. If you can place in this tournament, it will usually get you into nationals.”