Posted by kgary
January 24, 2009 00:16AM
Express-Times
Easton wrestlers find themselves in the unusual position of underdog heading into tonight's wrestling match against archrival Phillipsburg at "The Pit."
The Red Rovers have won 10 straight matches against the Stateliners and own a 58-13 advantage overall in the series. The Red Rovers defeated the Stateliners 32-24 last year at Easton Middle School.
"The Easton match is always one of our top priorities and never more so than this year," Phillipsburg senior Nick Pare said. "Yes, we talk about the streak all the time, not just this year. We've talked about it the entire time I've been wrestling in high school. We think if we win (tonight), it'll be worth the wait."
Phillipsburg is favored based upon its 28-21 victory over Long Branch (N.J.) in the NHSCA event last weekend while the Rovers lost to the Green Wave 35-24. Additionally, the 'Liners won the Reno (Nev.) Tournament of Champions in which Easton placed eighth.
The Stateliners prevailed in the three head-to-head bouts against the Red Rovers in Reno. Oliver Brukardt beat Mark Hartenstine 2-1 at 140 pounds; Nick Pare prevailed 11-5 over Anthony Minotti at 145; and Eric Bohem decisioned Jeff Griffith 3-1 at 171.
"Some really, really outstanding and close matchups," Powell said. "From 103 to 112, right on through. Certainly they'll be favored in some bouts and we'll be in a couple but there are a lot of toss-ups. There could be a great Hartenstine-Brukardt rematch, but I doubt Jason will gamble with that one."
There is not a ticket to be had in the raucous 1,300-seat Phillipsburg gymnasium, so follow the match results live at www.lehighvalleylive.com.