Bertin falls in college wrestling showcase
In the third period of his match with Ohio’s Jake Percival, Michigan senior Ryan Bertin knew it would take drastic measures to overcome the 10-4 deficit.
Percival and Bertin are ranked second and third in the 157-pound weight class, respectively, and Bertin knew he would have to come out fighting if he wanted a chance at the upset. He escaped Percival’s hold and earned a takedown to begin the period, but in the end, it was not enough. Percival won the match in an 11-7 decision.
Percival amassed his lead by scoring three takedowns in the first period, putting him ahead 7-4. In the second period, Percival started on the bottom, but managed to escape Bertin’s hold while adding a takedown to go ahead 10-4. Bertin’s third-period heroics would not be enough for victory.
Last night’s match was part of the National Wrestling Coaches Association Marines All-Star Classic at Southern Illinois University. It was one of 10 matches scheduled to showcase the best college wrestlers in the country.
— Jack Herman