VESTAL, N.Y. -- Binghamton wrestling opened its dual meet season by splitting four matches at the Journeymen/Brute Sprawl & Brawl, held Sunday at the West Gym.
The 13-team event featured four nationally-ranked teams, including No. 14 Penn State, which toppled BU 36-8.
Binghamton defeated Wagner (54-0) and AIC (38-3) and lost to North Carolina 27-10 in its other match.
"I thought it was a very productive day for our guys," head coach Pat Popolizio said. "They wrestled at a very high level and I can see our improvement from last year. It was exciting to wrestle those kind of teams in our home gym."
Junior 184-pound Josh Patterson, ranked No. 17 in the country, went 4-0 on the day. Patterson earned two pins, one technical fall and a major decision.
His biggest triumph was a convincing 17-1 technical fall over No. 13 Phil Bomberger of Penn State. Patterson improved to 8-1 overall this season.
Sophomore 125-pound Tyler Malmberg won three of four matches, as did junior 197-pound Corey Waite and junior 133-pound Rob Slavin.
"I thought Rob Slavin had a great day," Popolizio added. "He was very impressive. And Josh Patterson dominated today. He made a big statement that he is ready to compete at the highest level."
Binghamton heads to Albany next Saturday for the Northeast Duals. The Bearcats will wrestle No. 1 Iowa along with Lehigh, UNC Greensboro and Brown.
Courtesy: BU Sports Information
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