Springfield Ties Harvard Wrestlers

Harvard's varsity wrestling squad took six of 10 individual bouts, but two Springfield pins resulted yesterday in a disappointing 18-18 tie for the Crimson. Both team coaches had predicted a rather routine Harvard victory before the match.

The frustrating tie, which brought Harvard's season record to 7-3-2, did not affect the Crimson's standings in any league competition. But the disappointing showing could still have a serious effect upon the squad.

The Crimson's line-up, considered by Coach John Lee to be the most talented in years, has yet to win a big team match or crush an easy opponent. While the Crimson has won a majority of individual bouts, it has failed to offset pins at its weakest spots.

The result has been that the morale of the team has switched almost completely from concentrating on team record to centering on individual performances. This approach may hurt Harvard's chances for a high finish in the Ivy League standings, but the squad may still give its strongest showing ever in the more individual-oriented Eastern championships.

Lee had praise yesterday for several Crimson wrestlers. In particular. Dan Blakinger (118) defeated Springfield's Bob Meyer, who had only lost to Penn State in fourteen bouts, 3-1. Captain Colin Mangrum (158) returned to action for the first time in two months and easily decisioned Ed Hayes, 13-4.

Harvard started well as a team building an early 9-3 lead. Freshman Carl Biello (126) lost a close decision to Springfield's undefeated Skip Fenton, but Josh Henson (134) and Gerry Karrilas (142) both won good bouts.

Springfield rallied in two of the next three matches, however, taking pins at 150 and 167. The pin at 167 was crucial for it gave Springfield a three point lead and permitted the Indians to bide their strategic time until the heavyweight bout.

Ritchie Starr (177) and Dave Scanlon (190) won decisions against opponents who were attempting to avoid pins. Springfield then tied the match with a 5-4 decision in the heavyweight contest.