DIXFIELD — There was plenty of good performances, but the Dirigo team did most of the talking on the wrestling mat in a battle between four Mid-State League foes Tuesday.

A series of six pins in the middle and upper weights enabled Dirigo to rally for a 45-25 win against Fryeburg Academy, and then the Cougars flexed their muscles in crushing Monmouth 66-5 and Madison 72-6.

Alex Miele (15-0 at 160 pounds) and Mitch Lemay each recorded three pins in the first period to lead the Cougars. A decision by Eric Holman (112) actually ignited the roll, and it was lights out as freshman Justin Jasper (125), Brandon Jonaitis (140), Chad Oakes (145) and Zach White (215) each stuck Raider opponents.

“We needed to see how our younger kids would do,” Dirigo coach Doug Gilbert said. “The idea was to let them wrestle and gain some confidence. We have had a tough season, so far.”

Dirigo improved to 6-3 and accomplished its goal of getting quality mat time. The numerous matches showed the flaws in the numerous wrestlers which need to be addressed throughout the long season. Dirigo unveiled its new mat highlighted by a Cougar head in the middle circle.

Class B Fryeburg (6-2) had started out on a positive note with two wins. In a freshmen match, Connor Sheehan (10-1) major decisioned 11-0 Brett Whittemore (13-5) and Jake Thurston decisioned Caleb Hall, 3-1. Fryeburg crushed Monmouth and Madison.

“I expect good things from this team,” Fryeburg coach Ron Pelkie said. “We have five freshmen and no seniors. Our youth movement is starting to pay off.”

Stephan Emery of Fryeburg pinned Nelson Pepin, but the Cougar freshman recorded a come-from-behind 8-4 win. Big Ben Dolloff stuck two, including Josh Seekins of independent Winthrop.

Monmouth (0-5) was led by Kyle Foyt who stuck White and won 11-1 at 189. Matt McInnis won by technical fall (five team points at 119). The Mustangs don’t field a full lineup, so its difficult to get on a roll.

“I liked what we did,” Monmouth coach Shawn Schultz said, following a 37-1 loss to Madison. “We are improving and showed some heart and technique on the mat. There were some kids going six minutes.”