LA GRANDE — In a showdown between nationally ranked opponents, the No. 19-ranked Southern Oregon held off No. 17-ranked Eastern Oregon, 20-17, Friday night at La Grande High School.

The 125-pound match set the tone as EOU’s Hunter Sparks dominated Vonn Fenn for a 10-0 major decision. Southern took control over the next six matches winning five including a crucial forfeit victory putting it up 20-7 heading into the final three matches of the evening.

Eastern Oregon battled back with key wins from Kyle Knudtson and Jay Smith at 184 and 197. The final outcome hinged on the heavyweight clash, where EOU’s Darrian Hoobery secured a decisive 12-6 decision over Sebastian Echeverria, but it wasn’t enough.

Eastern Oregon returns to mat action on Sunday at the Spokane Open in Spokane, Washington.