Royals Go Two and Out, Individuals Begin Quest at State Wrestling Tournament

The Woodbury High School wrestling program's first visit to the State 3A Team Wrestling Tournament came and went Thursday as the Royals, champions in Section 4, ran in to a couple of state placewinners. 

Prior Lake, which placed third overall in the team tournament, knocked off Woodbury in the opening round, 49-15. In consolation action, Moorhead, champions in Section 8, topped Woodbury 51-21 at the Xcel Energy Center. 

The Royals got solid performances from Ben Donnelly, who picked up a win at 132 pounds in the opening round and a big pin in the consolation match at 138 pounds. Justin Herold-Plakut of Woodbury also had a pair of wins at 160 pounds. 

Five Woodbury wrestlers, including Herold-Plkut and Donnelly, will wrestle in individual action today. 

At 113 pounds, eighth-grader Austin Brauer will square off with Centennial's Mike Mischke. 

Ty Johnson, at 120 pounds, is a sophomore with a record of 34-8 on the season. He opens with Kory Keske of Rice and is expected to do well. 

Donnelly is a favorite in his opening match, but No. 1 Luke Rowh of Hastings waits in the second round. 

Herold-Plakut is a strong favorite to make the medal stand at 152 pounds. The unior has a record of 39-3 and faces Owatonna's Ty Sorensen in the opening round. 

Howard Jones, a section champ, is a junior with a record of 33-7. He's got a shot to place at 160 pounds. 

Meanwhile, East Ridge High School's Reid Lyden makes his return trip to the state tourney this year.

For video of the State 3A Wrestling tournament, follow the action on Prep45.com this weekend. 

The Guillotine and MSHSL websites will also be updating results. 

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