The Dark Horses soccer team squeaked past East Bladen 2-1 on Saturday, beating them for the second time this year on the road — this time in the second round of the playoffs.

This match was decided in the first half as the teams played lockdown defense in the second half. Action started out right away with both teams scoring goals inside the first minute.

Sam Holloman scored the first goal of the night literally 10 seconds into the match, thanks to an assist from Reid Taylor. The action didn’t end there as East Bladen immediately answered back 30 seconds later, with what would be their only goal of the night.

The game remained tied throughout the first half until a miscue from East Bladen sealed their fate. A header from one of the Eagles’ players near their goal accidentally found its way into the net giving Clinton the go-ahead score on the own goal, and the 2-1 lead. This would be the score for the rest of the night as the Horses took the victory.

“This was a close game; it was just one of those ugly games that we had to fight through to win,” said Clinton coach Brad Spell. “We’re glad to get the win and move on into the sweet 16. We’ve got a big fight coming up next against First Flight, who’s been the state runner-ups three out of the last four years.”

The Dark Horses will face First Flight on the road Wednesday.

Clinton’s Sam Holloman, in a previous game against Wallace-Rose Hill, scored a goal in the first 10 seconds of the second round playoff match against East Bladen. Clinton would go on to win 2-1.
https://www.clintonnc.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/web1_DSC_0426.jpgClinton’s Sam Holloman, in a previous game against Wallace-Rose Hill, scored a goal in the first 10 seconds of the second round playoff match against East Bladen. Clinton would go on to win 2-1.
Clinton to face powerhouse First Flight on road in third round

By Michael Hardison

Sports Editor

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