I congratulate you on standing your ground and defending your friend.
Perhaps stating they had hit a nerve wasn't the shrewdest move, like most people (including karateka) we often look for the weak spot in others to aim for, whether it be physical or emotional, etc. I work with a bunch of rowdy women, and I know better than to admit any weakness otherwise its unmerciless torture for the rest of the day. Its all done in fun, but I'm still wary. The best way I have found to counter any barrage of comments is to make fun of it first, for example your question "would she like it if I made a pass at her?" I would probably say something like "sure, she would love it, she broke her last punching bag so I know she's looking for another so go for it!" or "what makes you think she would be interested in you?, she has GOOD taste!"
This way you really don't answer their questions but you also show no disrespect to your friend.
Much easier in hindsight, harder when you're on the spot, so don't beat yourself up too much. Give it a while, as Gary says they will soon get over it. If they don't then you may have to take further action, but just see how it goes. Making too big a fuss straight away may just cause resentment and hostility at work, which is no fun!
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