Esperanza Comes On Strong, Wins Second Consecutive League Title

Despite his team being ranked fifth in the county, Esperanza wrestling Coach Steve Marshall was a bit apprehensive about facing Sunset League rival Fountain Valley Thursday night at Fountain Valley.

“[The Barons] might be unranked, but any time you go against a team that has a 24-0 record and the league title is at stake, you have to be a little worried,” Marshall said.

Although Fountain Valley led by 10 after the first four matches, defending league champion Esperanza came on strong to win the next nine out of 10 matches and finished with a 46-15 victory.

Esperanza, whose only loss this season was to Calvary Chapel, finished at 20-2 overall and 5-0 in league.

Esperanza’s Johnny Bielat (112) had the most impressive match, coming back from a six-point deficit to beat Brian Moto, 13-9. Jim Roberts, in a 135-pound match, also was impressive against Pete Neufang. Neufang tied the score in the third period, but Roberts was able to deflect Neufang’s shots managed a takedown and an 8-6 victory.

Zach Jackson (130), Scott Grigoruk (140), Noah Culp (145), Jamie Smith (160) and Greg Freetage (215) all had pins for Esperanza.

Trong Hoang, who was the only Fountain Valley wrestler to earn a pin, won his 119-pound match against Brett Sheffield in 1 minute 30 seconds.

“As far as I know, no Esperanza wrestling team has ever won two straight league titles,” Marshall said. “This is so cool. I’m very proud of these athletes.”