Dekalb, IL – In an electrifying Mid-American Conference dual on November 20, 2024, Northern Illinois University (NIU) triumphed over Rider University with a narrow 20-19 victory. The Huskies (1-1, 1-0 MAC) secured their first-ever win against the Broncs (0-2, 0-1 MAC) in program history, marking a significant milestone for NIU Wrestling.

The match was intense from the start, with each team battling for every point. Blake West set the tone for the Huskies in the 125-pound category, dominating Will Betancourt with a major decision of 8-0. This early victory was followed by Markel Baker’s impressive 19-5 major decision over Nieko Malone in the 133-pound bout, giving NIU a strong start.

Rider responded with wins at 149, 157, 165, 174, and 184 pounds. Sammy Alvarez’s 7-1 decision over Collin Arch, Colton Washleski’s major decision (17-6) over Landen Johnson, Enrique Munguia’s narrow 5-4 victory over Brett Smith, Michael Wilson’s 17-3 major decision over Jake Evans, and Isaac Dean’s technical fall (20-4 at 6:41) over Spencer Steiner, pushed Rider ahead significantly.

Despite the setbacks, NIU’s Jacob Brya secured a crucial 7-5 decision against McKenzie Bell in the 141-pound match, while Spencer Mooberry’s clutch performance in the 197-pound category turned the tide. Mooberry faced Steyn De Lange and, after trailing early, captured a fall at 6:05 in the third period, bringing the Huskies within two points.

The final bout saw Jacob Christensen (285 pounds) clinch the dual for NIU. Christensen scored an escape in the second period and maintained his lead, ultimately winning 3-1 against Collin French. This victory not only sealed the dual but also etched NIU’s name in the history books with their first win over Rider.

The Huskies’ thrilling 20-19 win marks the second consecutive time that their matchup with Rider has been decided by a single point, highlighting the fierce competition between these teams.

Match Results:

• 125: Blake West (NIU) over Will Betancourt (Rider) (MD 8-0)
• 133: Markel Baker (NIU) over Nieko Malone (Rider) (MD 19-5)
• 141: Jacob Brya (NIU) over McKenzie Bell (Rider) (Dec 7-5)
• 149: Sammy Alvarez (Rider) over Collin Arch (NIU) (Dec 7-1)
• 157: Colton Washleski (Rider) over Landen Johnson (NIU) (MD 17-6)
• 165: Enrique Munguia (Rider) over Brett Smith (NIU) (Dec 5-4)
• 174: Michael Wilson (Rider) over Jake Evans (NIU) (MD 17-3)
• 184: Isaac Dean (Rider) over Spencer Steiner (NIU) (TF 20-4 6:41)
• 197: Spencer Mooberry (NIU) over Steyn De Lange (Rider) (Fall 6:05)
• 285: Jacob Christensen (NIU) over Collin French (Rider) (Dec 3-1)

NIU’s victory over Rider in Dekalb was a testament to their determination and resilience, promising an exciting season ahead in the Mid-American Conference.