Nov. 19, 2007

EUGENE, Ore. - Third-ranked junior All-American Mike Poeta earned a fall on Wisconsin's No. 2 All-American Craig Henning at the National Wrestling Coaches Association All-Star Classic. It is Poeta's fifth career win over a higher-ranked opponent and improves his record to 4-0.

"It's a terrific win for Mike," Illinois coach Mark Johnson said. "It's a big win against a top conference rival for him to start the season."

With the bout scoreless and 1:15 remaining in the first period, Poeta got deep on a double, forcing Henning to scramble. Poeta then stacked up Henning and the Badger tried to tie up Poeta's head. But the Illini captain sat up, earning the fall in 2:22.

Up Next: The Illini take a week off from competition for Thanksgiving before returning to action at the Cliff Keen Las Vegas Invitational Nov. 30-Dec. 1.