Ventura’s Big Boys Show Way in Victory

VENTURA —  The big boys pointed the way for the Ventura High wrestling team and the Cougars continued their Channel League dominance with a 58-7 thrashing of Dos Pueblos on Thursday night at Ventura High.

Cristobal Gonzalez (189 pounds), Joe Martinez (215) and Joe Locklear (heavyweight) closed out the Cougars’ latest lopsided victory with technical-fall victories, each recording at least 20 points.

Gonzalez, a state qualifier last season as a sophomore, ran his record to 27-0 by outpointing Pat Compton, 21-9. Gonzalez recorded one takedown after another and gave up several points on concession escapes.

“I figured if I could beat him on takedowns, I’d beat him on takedowns,” Gonzalez said.

Martinez and Locklear recorded 20-5 victories over Owen Finley and David Najera.

“I basically won the match with my feet,” said Martinez, who improved to 32-3. “My quickness is my strong point this year.”

Strong from top to bottom this season, the Cougars (13-1) are 4-0 in league meets and have outscored league opponents, 265-24.

Ventura, ranked second in Southern Section Division I, is vying for its first league title in three years and seventh in nine.

Overpowering Dos Pueblos (9-7, 2-3), two-time defending league champion, left the Cougars all but crowned with one meet remaining.

“What you saw tonight is that we have a lot of balance,” Ventura Coach Paul Clementi said. “With this team, we’re looking at a shot at the Southern Section dual meet title.”

Ventura’s Jose Lopez (152) also piled up the points with a 17-1 decision over Joe Tate.

Ventura recorded victories in 12 of 14 weight classes, including two by forfeit. Brothers Trevor and Dustin Clocherty recorded quick pins.

Trevor stopped Ben Fischetti in 1:20 in the 125-pound bout. Dustin flattened Robbie Jenkinson in 43 seconds at 130 pounds.

The Cougars even won the close ones. Rory Locke defeated Eric McTague , 9-6, at 119, Steven Cox defeated Kevin Hughes, 7-4, at 145, and Jared Webster defeated Joe Raven, 11-9, on a two-point takedown in overtime at 171.