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Senior Sam Allen recorded a fall at UC Davis Saturday night.
  
 
Narrow Defeat Marks Improved Performance

Utah Valley's upset bid of UC Davis falls just short

Dec. 15, 2007

Davis, Calif. - Utah Valley had four winners in its dual meet against UC Davis, but lost by a final of 21-15.

The loss notwithstanding, UV improved immensely from its 36-15 loss last season at the hands of the same UC Davis squad, and Utah Valley head coach Greg Williams said Saturday's dual was as well as his team has wrestled all year.

"It was a really good match for us," Williams said. "UC Davis is a very well-coached team. They're a top team, and we felt like this was a good chance to see where we're at. I told the team we needed to make a statement. Win or lose each individual had to wrestle the best he could, and they each did that."

The Wolverines did more than just hang in there with a great program, which began 6-0 last season in the Pac-10. UV held a 15-12 lead with a chance to clinch the meet heading into freshman Flint Ray's (133) matchup with senior Francisco Manriquez. With the match knotted at 2-apiece, Manriquez recorded an escape, a takedown and then the pin to take the crucial victory.

"We were that close to winning against a good program," Williams said. "Our guys stepped it up. We're showing a lot of improvement."

Freshman Ben Kjar (125) continued his stellar performance on the season defeating Marco Orozco in a 4-3 decision. Falling behind 0-1, Kjar recorded a takedown to take a 2-1 lead. From there Kjar never trailed again, earning points on another takedown and 1:52 riding time.

Seniors Sam Allen (F, 4:38) and Marc Fenwick (D, 6-5) both won in the 149-pound and 174-pound divisions, respectively. Freshman Zach Williams (197) recorded a 10-5 decision over Ryan Silvera.

"The guys have noticed the things they're working on are working," Williams said of his team. "That gives them confidence, and it also allows them to trust [the coaches]. We need that trust. As they do those things we ask of them, they'll keep improving."

Next up for Utah Valley is the Reno Tournament of Champions in Reno, Nev. UV travels to Reno to compete in the all-day tournament Wednesday, Dec. 19.