The Saint Ignatius wrestling squad took a trip to Lakewood on Thursday evening, visiting the wrestling factory at St. Edward High School.

The Mat Cats were defeated, 63-9, but churned out a pair of victories in the dual match. 

The Eagles performed inspired following a ceremony honoring St. Edward's first state title in 1978. St. Edward won the lightweight matches, building a 41-0 lead on the backs of a handful of pins, a tech fall, and a major decision.

The Wildcats' first victory came at 160 pounds. Promising sophomore Najee Lockett notched an impressive 8-3 victory to pick up three points for the blue and gold. 

The Wildcats' second and final triumph occurred at 170 pounds. Logan Toth, a team captain, pinned his opponent in glorious fashion. Toth secured pinned his Eagle adversary in the second period, making the Wildcats fans in attendance quite happy. 

The match then turned to 195 pounds. Michael Drobnick, a State Qualifier last season and member of the Football Cats, battled Jiryes Zakaib through the second period. Drobnick fought to a 0-0 tie after one period before eventually succuumbing in the second. 

Aidan Gill, also adjusting from football season, was defeated in a 15-5 decision at 220 pounds before the match concluded with a pin.

The loss marked the first regular season defeat to St. Edward for any Saint Ignatius varsity team since December 22, 2016. The Wildcats had beaten the Eagles in 12 straight games/matches across all sports dating back to March 11, 2017. 

The Mat Cats will be back in action after Christmas for the Brecksville Holiday Tournament. The annual invitational at Brecksville-Broadview Heights High School will take place from December 28-29.