By KEVIN ECKLEBERRY

Daily News

The Troup Tigers came up just short in their quest to qualify for the state duals.

Troup hosted the Area 5-AAAA duals on Friday, with five teams competing for two state berths.

Troup opened with a win over Cedartown before losing to Central-Carroll, the eventual area champion.

After getting a big win over LaGrange, Troup and Cartersville squared off with second place on the line.

It was a hard-fought match, with Cartersville securing the 48-36 win.

Troup competed well considering it was unable to fill four weight classes, which resulted in four forfeits.

LaGrange opened against Cartersville, and it lost 48-36.

After beating Cedartown, LaGrange needed a win over Troup to advance, but it lost 35-33.

Central-Carroll and Cartersville will both compete in the state duals next week in Macon.

LaGrange and Troup will return to action for the county championship on Jan. 22 at Callaway High.

OF NOTE: For much more on the area duals, see Tuesday’s sports section.