Isaiah Owens helped Warsaw to a dual win over Goshen in its final NLC matchup. (File photo by Mike Deak)

WARSAW 41, GOSHEN 33

For the second time this week, Warsaw put together a strong run and then ultimately needed big wins late to secure victory.

The Tigers (17-4, 5-2 NLC) got the scoring going early with Liam Nolin racking up 16 points early in the second period of his 145 pound match for a win by tech-fall.

Goshen then responded with six points via pinfall at 152 pounds.

A trio of junior wrestlers stepped up for Warsaw and earned pins.  160 pounds, Jacob Linky made quick work of his opponent to pick up a pin and six points for Warsaw.

Brandon Estepp followed suit at 170 and he worked to earn his pin in the second period, and Mario Cortes at 182 put away his opponent in the first period.

Goshen then made a lineup shift and forfeited to Brock Hueber at 195 as the Tigers took a big 29-6 lead.

At 220 pounds, Angel Mendez hung tough and nearly earned a takedown at the buzzer, but lost a close 1-0 decision.

Goshen went on a run of their own with a pin at 285 and two forfeits at 106 and 113.

With Warsaw hanging on to a 29-27 lead, the Redhawks picked up a narrow 10-8 win as Jose Martinez was just short of earning a nearfall to send the match to overtime at 120.

Andrew Ross brought the momentum back to the Tigers as he meticulously worked into position for a second period win by pin at 126 pounds.

Brock Hogenson found himself in a battle at 132 pounds, but wasn’t able to close the deal as dropped a close 11-7 decision but kept the Tigers ahead 35-33.

The night’s final matchup would be the deciding margin.  Senior 138 pounder, Isaiah Owens was able to run an early takedown and a series of turns into a third period win by pinfall to close out the scoring at 41-33.

WAWASEE 72, ST. JOE 9

Wawasee put on quite a show in its home finale against the Indians.

An overtime takedown and a pin in the final match of the night was all the Warriors allowed, cruising to its 21st dual win of the season.

Earning pins for the Warriors were Dylan Tom, Landen Dilley, Brenden Dilley, Gavin Malone, Garrett Stuckman, Logan Baugh, Fernando Hernandez and Austin Lajoice. Wawasee also benefitted from four forfeits en route to the win.