Lucky No. 7? Jefferson Wrestler to Compete for High Spot in State Tourney

Jefferson's Mike Monarque entered the state wrestling tournament with loftier goals. But the Falcons senior wasn't too disappointed with Saturday's result.

"His whole goal was to get on the podium, and he accomplished that," Jefferson head coach Matt Moscatello said. "Hopefully he can finish the season with one more win [Saturday]."

Monarque lost to West Essex's Frank Marotti, 6-2, in the 152-pound consolation semifinals Saturday. He'll compete for the No. 7 spot Sunday against Francisco Colom of St. Peter's.

Monarque went ahead, 1-0, early. But it didn't last. Marotti hit him with a takedown, causing Monarque's nose to bleed, stopping the match for several minutes.

Moscatello said the bloody nose might have set Monarque back.

"Sometimes your stuff is working," Moscatello said. "But it didn't seem like he was getting what he wanted on his feet and then he gave up a takedown, got the bloody nose and it took him out of his game. Down here, things like that will kill you."

Monarque soon fell behind, 4-1. It didn't get much better for the Jefferson star after that.

Moscatello said he didn't think the loss sullied Monarque's big year.

"He's had a great season," Moscatello said.