Messenger photo by Britt Kudla: Jayden Gargano reacts to a win on Friday at the state wrestling tournament in Des Moines. For more photos, please visit CU.messengernews.net

DES MOINES — The fourth time was the charm for Humboldt’s Jayden Gargano.

The Wildcat senior had gone toe-to-toe with Algona freshman Barrett Morgan three times this season, coming up empty in all three meetings before Friday.

With a medal on the line at the state wrestling meet, Gargano prevailed when it mattered most.

“It means a lot, and really, all of the credit goes to my coaches,” Gargano said. “They helped me make some adjustments that made a difference.

“They believe in me, which makes me believe in myself. I’m confident every match that I have the best guys in the state in my corner.”

The 10th-seeded Gargano (126) pulled out a 5-4 victory to advance to the consolation semifinals at 126 pounds. Up next for Gargano (43-7) is ninth-seed Jerren Gille (38-5) of Dubuque Wahlert.

Classmate Jase Goodell (152) is alive for a third-place medal as well with two victories on the backside.

“Gritty performances by those two,” said HHS head coach Chad Beaman. “Both beat out higher seeds to win in the blood round and then both guys had to beat someone they’ve already wrestled in the tournament to jump into the top six.

“Great mindset.”

Goodell (42-5), the eighth seed making his third trip to state, beat fifth-seed Brent Yonkovic (23-7) of West Delaware, 4-2. Then pinned No. 9 Coy De Boer (43-4) of Sheldon 2:51.

Awaiting Goodell in the consolation semifinals is No. 14 Lucas Kral (42-5) of Garner-Hayfield.

“I feel very proud of myself and the way that I bounced back this year,” Goodell said. “The job isn’t done yet and I just have to stay focused because I have two more wins to get.

“After those wins, I will be sure to celebrate.”

Cyler Cirks (35-9 at 113), the five seed, lost 9-2 to No. 9 Carter Schmauss (37-11) of Crestwood.