Union’s junior varsity got back in the win column Wednesday afternoon, defeating a scrappy North Duplin team 47-41.

Spartan coach Bryant Register said it was a good win for his Union team, and a learning experience to boot.

“I was really proud of the way the guys played, especially in the first three quarters. In the second and third quarters, I think they played the best they have all season in terms of intensity and effort,” Register said.

He also offered his congratulations to the Rebels, noting that they never gave up in a game that nearly went the other way.

“They kept battling and battling; they never gave up, and I have to congratulate them on that effort,” Register said.

Union dug in early and fought off the Rebels, leading by first quarter’s end 12-9. The Spartans were able to extend that lead some more in the second period and went into the half up 26-18.

The Spartan JV continued its intensity in the third period, putting yet more distance between themselves and the home team, and went ahead 38-21 when the opening of the final frame began.

That’s when North Duplin turned up the heat and Union let off the gas, and before long a 20-point Spartan lead was cut drastically.

“We backed off in that fourth quarter and North Duplin got on a run. We were able to regroup, though, and come away with the win. We were fortunate to get out of there with it,” Register acknowledged.

Leading the way for Union was Christian Boykin with 18 points. Others scoring were Jamar Newkirk, 6; Carter Spearman, 5; Jamar Newkirk, 5; Traquan Peterson, 5; Brandon Johnson, 4; and JaVante Henry, 4.

The win moves the junior varsity record to 2-5 overall and 0-1 in the conference. They return to the court Thursday for a home game that begins at 4:30 p.m.