Serving the High Plains

Wrestling team finishes runner-up for district title

The Tucumcari wrestling team finished runner-up Saturday for a district title, but a disappointed coach Eddie Encinias thought his Rattlers should have won the championship.

"We fell on our faces," Encinias said. "There were guys I thought should have won, lost. Then we had guys I thought would keep it close and not get pinned, got pinned.

"I thought we'd have a good meet," he added, "but things happen."

Tucumcari shut out Newcomb 81-0 during Saturday's meet at (Las Vegas) Robertson but fell to the host team 58-18, deciding the district crown.

Tucumcari ended its regular season with a 13-6 record in duals.

Rod Dunlap, wrestling at 145 pounds, and Joe Martinez (152) each won both of their matches Saturday. Dunlap improved to 25-1 overall this season.

Tucumcari's next meet is the district championships for individuals Feb. 16 at West Las Vegas. The top three finishers in their weight classes qualify for the state tournament Feb. 22-23 at Rio Rancho.

"If they wrestle like they should, we should be all right at state," Encinias said of his wrestlers' chances of advancing.

 
 
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