The Gophers wrestling team was 4-0 this season in matches decided by two or one point. But Cornell reversed that trend Saturday afternoon, edging Minnesota 19-17 in the quarterfinals of the National Wrestling Coaches Association's National Duals in Iowa City.
The No. 4 Gophers (12-3) had won the National Duals the past three years.
Both teams won five matches, but the No. 5-ranked Big Red got more bonus points. Nick Dardanes and Michael Kroells won major decisions for Minnesota at 141 pounds and heavyweight, respectively, for two extra points.
Cornell (16-1) got four bonus points on two technical falls, at 125 and 165. The Big Red also got an upset at 157 when Brian Realbuto, ranked No. 6, beat top-ranked Dylan Ness 9-3. Ness was 26-0.
Other Minnesota winners were No. 1 Chris Dardanes (20-0) at 133, Logan Storley at 174 and Scott Schiller at 197.
Next the Gophers will be in the Big Ten Championships, which start March 7 in Columbus, Ohio.
