Nov. 8, 2009

YPSILANTI, Mich. - Robbie Michaels scored a foutth place finish and Marcus Effner brought home a sixth place finish as the Vikings opened their 2009-2010 at the 18th Annual Eastern Michigan Open on Saturday.

Michaels steamrolled through his fist two matches, including an 11-4 decision over Rob Niel of Navy and a 8-0 victory, putting him against EWL foe and 2008-2009 National Champion Jarrod King of Edinboro. After exchanging scores, in a fierce seven minute battle, Michaels lost, 9-5. He was able to rebound and win his next three matches before being edged out 5-4 in his final match against Kyle Bounds in the consolation final.

In his first live action in over a year, Effner looked like a seasoned pro in a 4-3 win over Nick Hendrick. Trailing for 6:47, Effner was able to keep his composure and score a thrilling last second takedown to secure the win. He went on to collect another victory over Daniel Jonhanny of Heidelberg, 1-0. Effner finished with a 2-1 record and a sixth place finish.

In other action, Dan Castillo posted a 2-2 mark with a 7-1 win, along with a fall over Ryan Maxfield of Lansing CC.

True freshman Chris Webber scored his first collegiate victory with a pin at 1:31 over Tyler Porras of Lindenwood, while Nick Anthony also grabbed his first win an 8-5 decision over Tommy St. Louis of Eastern Michigan.

"The team fought hard today," head coach Ben Stehura said. "We will get back in the room this week and continue to work hard."

The Vikings will return to Michigan this weekend to compete in the Michigan State Open on Sunday, November 15.