Union’s JV Spartans continued their hot one minute, cold the next play against East Duplin Tuesday night, falling to the visitors 46-32.

Coach Bryant Register said his young Spartans had the ability, and showed it in the first half, but faltered in the final two periods. “It’s been the same story all season so far — a tale of two halves. We play really good and then we fall short.”

In the opening half, East Bladen and Union traded baskets, with the visitors up by only 3 — 11-8 — after one period. Then the JV Spartans found their spark, taking a 21-16 lead into the half.

“Our defense was played very aggressively, and on offense we moved the ball well. I honestly couldn’t have asked for them to have played a better first half.”

But the second half was a different story. East Bladen put on the pressure and, Register said, his team seemed to panic. Coupled with poor foul shooting in the third period, turnovers, missed layups and missed jump shots, the visitors were able to regain the lead and hold on for the win.

“We will just return to practice the next couple of days, work to improve and get ready for Clinton Friday night. We’re going to keep improving,” Register said.

In Tuesday’s game, Christian Boykin led scoring for the JV Spartans with 13 points. Brandon Johnson had 7; JaVonte Henry, 6; Carter Spearman, 4; and Jawan Newkirk, 2.

The JV travels to Clinton for a rematch with the young Dark Horses Friday. Game time is 4:30 p.m.