The Minooka wrestling team took a trip to Lincoln-Way West on Nov. 30 to take on the No. 12-ranked team in the state.

The night started off at the 132-pound weight class where the Indians had a decision win from Dalton Ferguson.

The Warriors bounced back with five straight wins from 138-170 pounds and jumped out to a 17-3 lead heading into the 182-pound bout.

In the 182-pound match, senior Alec Dufour came into the night hungry to compete and defeated the No. 4-ranked wrestler in the state by a decision win, 8-4.

“It feels good to get a big win like that because it proves you’re one of the top guys in the state,” said Dufour, team captain.

After dropping a match at 195 pounds, the Indians bounced back with two consecutive pins from junior Drew Gutknecht and sophomore Nathan Berta at 285 pounds and 106 pounds, respectively. The Indians were right back in striking distance trailing in the team score 26-18.

The Warriors sealed the deal with a pin at the 113-pound weight class, but the Indians ended the night with two wins from senior Austin Markee and sophomorJack McClimon.

“We have to push each other and work our butts off in practice after a tough loss like that,” said Gutknecht.

The Indians compete in their home opener Thursday, Dec. 6 against conference foe Plainfield North Tigers at 6:30 p.m.

Noah Boles is a member of the Minooka wrestling team.