Jonathan Bowen
After nearly two weeks of no competition, the Mexico Lady Bulldogs appeared to be up to nearly full strength in terms of their numbers and health. Having a full lineup, or as close as you can get it, is a huge advantage over teams that don’t when they are heading into a dual tournament. This is the first of at least two dual tournaments the Mexico Lady Bulldogs have on their schedule this season. Coach Senor, acutely aware of this, was able to strategically place his wrestlers in spots for the team’s overall success.
When a schedule change was needed for the Lady Bulldogs, Coach Senor saw this event as an opportunity to wrestle teams, techniques, etc. that Mexico typically wouldn’t see except at the state tournament. This tournament could also be used for the Lady Bulldogs to build some momentum heading into the meat part of their season.
The Lady Bulldogs would be tested early by their first round opponent, Rockport. The dual score would go back and forth, with several lead changes. In fact, the score would be tied heading into the final two weights.
Heading into the final two matches, the score was tied 24-24. With multiple upper weights at his disposal, Coach Senor selected Senior Karisa Hayden to bump up from 170 lbs to 190 lbs. in hopes of reclaiming the lead. Rockport had a 190 lb. wrestler and most thought she would bump up to wrestle at heavyweight but elected not to do so. As such, instead of a simple hand raise Hayden would fight tooth and nail with her opponent but would come up just short in the end to lose by decision. She did lose but only gave up three team points, leaving the possibility of the currently #2 ranked 235 lb girl in the state (Alexus Johns) to help notch a victory for the Lady Bulldogs.
Since Rockport elected to keep their 190 lb wrestler at her original weight and not bump up to wrestle heavyweight, Alexus Johns simply went out on the mat to claim a forfeit victory. The final score was Mexico 30, Rockport 24.
