ATHENS – The Flowery Branch wrestling team couldn’t defend its area crown, but there’s still an opportunity for improvement at the state level. The Falcons clinched their second straight state duals appearance by placing second in Saturday’s Area 8-AAAAA Duals, falling to Clarke Central 47-28 in the tournament championship. Flowery Branch, last year’s area champion, went 2-1 on the day to secure the runner-up position.