Clinton’s varsity boys’ team, along with a packed gymnasiums, said good-bye to Farmville Monday after a close 80-75 victory. The win advances the Dark Horses into the second round of the state playoffs Wednesday.

“We had a big win tonight, probably against the most athletic team we have played,” head coach Brad Spell commented.

Although Clinton was able to convert their 10-point lead at the half to a 16-point boost early into the third, Farmville was not out of the game yet.

“I am really proud of the guys for keeping their composure. We attacked when we needed to,” Spell said of Farmville’s strong rally.

Roughly 4 minutes into the third quarter, Farmville’s run brought them within six, and come forth quarter, they were right on the Dark Horses tail.

The Eastern Plains Conference team battled for a one-point game with 6 minutes left on the clock, and nearly 3 minutes later had captured the lead.

Farmville claimed the lead four times in the remaining minutes; however, Clinton was able to maintain a calm, Spell said, which helped them claim the victory.

“I am real proud of the guys; they really came to play,” he concluded.

Leaders for Clinton were Dominic Quarterman with 27 points; Vic Register chipped in 13 points; Jaylon Robertson added 10 points; J.T. Miller contributed 14 points; and Terry Farrior recorded 14 points.

The Dark Horses will host the winner of the North Brunswick-Topsail game on Wednesday, Feb. 24, 7 p.m.

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