Mercer Island topples Liberty | Prep wrestling

The Mercer Island wrestling team defeated the Liberty Patriots 45-36 Thursday, Jan. 21 at Liberty High School. With the win, the Islanders improved their 2A/3A KingCo league record to 5-0.

By Reporter Staff • January 25, 2016 9:03 pm
Mercer Island's Donnie Howard grapples with opponent Brendan Nguyen of Liberty in their 195 match Thursday
Mercer Island's Donnie Howard grapples with opponent Brendan Nguyen of Liberty in their 195 match Thursday

The Mercer Island wrestling team defeated the Liberty Patriots 45-36 Thursday, Jan. 21 at Liberty High School. With the win, the Islanders improved their 2A/3A KingCo league record to 5-0.

The Islanders jumped out to an early 24-6 lead, only to see Patriots storm ahead, earning pins in four matches and getting another win by forfeit to take a 36-24 lead. The Islanders won out the rest of the way, with Finn Childress (160) scoring a 6-1 decision over Jacob Lex and Donnie Howard (195) pinning Brendan Nguyen.

Also earning pins for Mercer Island were Jordan Tillinger (106), Eli Pruchno (113) and Russell Asmus (220).

Next, the Islanders will take on the Interlake Saints at 7 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 28 at Mercer Island High School. With both squads undefeated, the winner of the dual meet will become the 2A/3A KingCo league champions.