Class A: Bremen defends state championship

By Brandon Brigman
GNWA Correspondent

Bremen wrestling coach Tony Armas would rather be the underdog than the favorite.
It's hard to play that role when you're the defending state champion, but Armas found a way heading into Saturday's Class A state finals.
"To try and beat a team two times in six days is a very hard task," Armas said.
That's the challenge Bremen faced against Gordon Lee and the Blue Devils came away with another victory, winning 44-27 to claim the state championship.
"I know we were 3-0 this week and that's all I'm worried about," Armas said.
Gordon Lee led 18-12 when Bremen reeled off three straight wins. Ryne Eriquezzo (major decision), Trey Travis (technical fall) and Kannon Madden (major decision) gave the Blue Devils a 21-18 advantage after 135 pounds.
Bremen and Gordon Lee went back and fourth before Bremen went on another run. Bremen's Slade Madden pinned Austin Goodlet in a rematch of last year's state finals and Sean Murphy sealed the win with a major decision at 171 pounds.
Zac Bell (decision), Jake Ullman (forfeit), Joe Baxley (pin) and Zach Young (pin) also had wins for the Blue Devils.
"It's great to be successful, but we're going to continue to push," Armas said.
Bremen improved to 23-3 on the season and the Blue Devils will be the favorite to defend their title at the Gwinnett Arena next month. Now Armas has to find another way for Bremen to be perceived as the underdogs.
"I hope we can do well. I know everyone is gunning for us," Armas said. "We've got some quality guys and we've got some holes, but so does everyone else."