CELINA-The Clay County Bulldogs broke open a tight game heading into the fourth quarter and advanced to the region semifinals with a 54-41 win over Gordonsville here Saturday afternoon. 

The Bulldogs’ win and Jackson County’s hard-fought win over Trousdale County sets up a third meeting between Clay County and the Blue Devils Tuesday at 6 p.m. at Watertown.

The Bulldogs led virtually all the way Saturday against Gordonsville, and finally pulled away a bit in the final quarter to get their 25th win of the season. Clay County led 15-11 after one and 22-18 at intermission. The Tigers chopped the lead to 29-27 at the end of three and tied the game with a quick bucket in the fourth quarter, the first time the game was tied since 5-5 early in the first quarter. 

The Bulldogs responded with nine straight points to take a 38-29 lead and survived some shaky free throw shooting in the closing minutes to advance to the semifinals at Watertown on Tuesday. 

OTHER REGION 4-A BOYS SCORES

Friendship Christian…………..53

Monterey………………………..46 (OT)

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Jackson County……………….56

Trousdale County……………..51

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Westmoreland @ Clarkrange…….Postponed until Monday

Clay County's Scott Brown (14) looks to the basket with teammate Caleb Lynn nearby. ABOVE: Tyler Edwards battles for a rebound against Gordonsville. (Staff photos by Kevin Donaldson)