For the Dove Creek Bulldogs wresting team, the first round of the state tournament was all business.

Three matches, three wins and on to the next round.

Baughman dominates in first round

Leading the way for the Bulldogs was 126-pound sophomore Case Baughman, who, wrestling extremely strong early, pinned Rye High School’s Wesley Camper.

Next up for Baughamn will be a second round matchup on Feb. 22 against Rocky Ford High School’s Michal Estrada (22-17).

Randolph dismantles first round opponent

Also wrestling well for the Bulldogs, junior Chance Randolph pinned Del Norte High School’s Tyler Martinez in the first period.

Up next for Randolph will be a second round match against Baca County High School’s J.D. Chenoweth (32-7).

Jones strong in opening round victory

Not to be outdone by his Bulldogs teammates, 138-pound senior Nick Jones performed well in the first round, winning a 15-9 decision over Fowler High School’s Rhett Hinkle.

Key in Jones’ win was the senior’s ability to utilize quickness to put his opponent at a disadvantage.

Next up for Jones will be a second round matchup against Holly High School’s Ryan Nordyke (28-1).

Check out continued coverage of the Bulldogs’ run through the state tournament on www.facebook.com/CortezJournal