Hatters Wrestler One Win Away from State Tourney

After weeks of battling to reach the PIAA class AAA Southeast Regional Tournament, Hatboro-Horsham senior had to wait almost three hours to see his first action of the night.

Harkins finally got his chance to step into the squared ring facing Owen J Roberts freshman Colby Franks in the 119-pound quarterfinal.

Franks (30-12), who had already won two matches to get to the number one- seeded Hatter, took advantage of the fact that Harkins sat idle for two and half hours.

Harkins (37-2) had maybe gotten too comfortable, as, 40 seconds into the match, he slipped trying to record a takedown and found himself suddenly on his back, with Franks exerting every ounce of energy trying to get a quick pin and a huge upset win.

Harkins was able to quickly reverse the fate of the match as he flipped Franks over and claimed four first period back points to take the lead, which he would never relinquish.

“I got off to a slow start there,” said Harkins. “He caught me by surprise a little, he was really strong on his feet. After he got those back points, I thought ‘I better get going.’ ”

Harkins, who advanced to semifinals with the win, will face John Dutrow of Council Rock North (31-10) who recorded an upset 16-0 win over Jake Sacchetti to advance.

Harkins, who needs only one win on Saturday to lock up a berth in next week’s PIAA State Tournament at the Giant Center in Hershey, took control of the match in the second period recording a take down. Heading into the final period, Harkins led 6-2, after the initial back points by Franks.

“Matt is always dangerous no matter what position he is in,” said Hatboro-Horsham coach Jason Gribschaw. “(Franks) had that one chance but if you don’t get Matt when he’s down you’re not getting him at all. He is always motivated and as a coach you love to see that kind of motor.” 

Score by period

Franks    2  0  1  - 3

Harkins  4  2  2  - 8

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