Although the Dark Horses were defeated 20-14 in an away game Friday night, head coach Steve Mallard reported the score was tied 14-14 at the end of the fourth, sending it into overtime.

“We had the ball first, had four opportunities and couldn’t get it in,” said Mallard of the overtime play, adding that Croatan scored on their third attempt to win it 20-14.

As for the scoring during regular play, Clinton would get on the board first Friday after Josh Smith completed a 3-yard run into the end zone. The kick by Wes Purcell was good, leaving the Dark Horses with a 0-7 lead over the Cougars.

In the second quarter, the Cougars were able to drive in two touchdowns,going into the half with a 14-7 lead.

It wasn’t until the fourth quarter that the Dark Horses scored again, Mallard reported.

The play came off a 1-yard run from quarterback Dion Smith. Purcell’s kick was good to tie the game up 14-all and send it into overtime, where the Dark Horses were handed a loss.

As for leading players, Mallard highlighted Smith with 12 carries for 65 yards and Mike Bell with six carries for 37 yards.

Overall, the Dark Horses are 1-6; in the conference they stand 1-3.

Jessica Wagner can be contacted at (910) 592-8137 ext.122 or reached by e-mail at siphoto@myclintonnc.com