SILVERDALE — North Kitsap proved that sometimes quantity can be just as effective as quality on the wrestling mat.

At the 29th Annual Central Kitsap Matman Classic, the Vikings got a strong dose of both as they finished eighth in one of the most difficult Matman tourneys in recent memory.

“We did alright,” said NK coach Jon Cooke. “We have a good group of solid wrestlers. But in a tourney like this, you really need some quality wrestlers. We had a couple thirds, quite a few fifths. So it’s looking good for the future.”

Matt Grimes (130 pounds) and Danny Glushko (215) remained the Vikings’ top threats, with each reaching a tie for third place in their respective classes. Joining them as placers were Nick Laurion (145), Nick Miller (152) and Anthony Lindfors (160), with each taking a fifth-place share.

The Vikings probably could have earned more team points than the 83 they secured but after tournament organizers realized the brackets each had wrestlers in the consolation finals exceeding the state’s mandated match limit, they decided to award third- and fifth-place ties.

Team-wise, wrestling powerhouse Lake Stevens took first place with 218 points, edging Enumclaw, which scored 203.5. South Kitsap finished a distant third with 151.5.

“It’s a tough tournament and I’m pleased with how we did,” Cooke said. “We were looking at things to do to get them ready. It’s all uphill from here.”

Other top competitors included Rogers of Puyallup, Auburn Riverside and Bethel. Cooke said teams like that will only help North get ready for the postseason.

“It’s just top-quality teams,” Cooke said. “That’s what our program needs is to see other teams so we’re not just beating ourselves up.”

In terms of getting ready for the playoffs, which are just a few weeks away, Cooke said only one thing will help keep North a step ahead.

“We’ll just be doing a lot of mat time,” Cooke said. “Just more fine tuning and things. Just getting more comfortable on the mat so we know what we need to do in the end.”

North Kitsap hosted Bremerton last night, but results were unavailable at press time.