# Vigor Scrapes Past Central-Clay County to Secure 5A Semifinal Berth
*Based on the original reporting by Ben Thomas for AL.com. Additional details added for broader context.*
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The high-stakes atmosphere of Alabama high school playoff football was on full display as the Vigor Wolves and Central-Clay County Volunteers clashed in a grueling 5A quarterfinal matchup. In a contest characterized by defensive grit, pivotal turnovers, and resilient play-calling, the Wolves ultimately emerged victorious, earning their place in the Class 5A state semifinals.
## Game Overview
– **Matchup**: Vigor Wolves vs. Central-Clay County Volunteers
– **Context**: A spot in the Alabama Class 5A state semifinals at stake
– **Final Score**: Vigor 20, Central-Clay County 14
Both teams entered the contest with impressive records and high aspirations. Vigor, a team with a history of postseason success, was looking to deepen its playoff run. The Central-Clay County Volunteers, known for combining a potent defense with a strong running game, had plans to spoil those hopes. Ultimately, Vigor’s opportunistic defense and a few critical offensive breakouts spelled the difference.
## First Half: Defensive Stalemate
The opening two quarters set the tone for a contest rife with tension. Both teams found yardage difficult to come by, as defenses seized control, bottling up running lanes and breaking up passes. The game featured:
– Frequent three-and-outs
– Serial punts
– Minimal gains in the rushing and passing attack
Both defensive coordinators dialed up pressure and disguised coverages, making it difficult for either quarterback to settle into a rhythm. Fans from both sides watched a battle of attrition unfold, knowing any slip-up could alter the game’s direction.
### Key Defensive Plays
– Vigor’s linebackers consistently plugged gaps and limited big plays
– Central-Clay County’s secondary broke up passes and swarmed to the ball
## Turning Points: Big Plays and Critical Mistakes
As the clock ticked down in the first half, it became clear the victory could hinge on a single burst of offense or a costly turnover. Vigor’s breakthrough came as the second quarter wound down.
### Late First-Half Surge
– **Vigor Quarterback’s Impact**: The Wolves’ quarterback engineered a crisp drive, mixing power runs and quick passes.
– **Scoring Strike**: Eventually, the Wolves capped their drive with a short touchdown plunge, seizing the game’s first meaningful lead.
– Momentum tilted toward Vigor, aided by a stifling defensive sequence that kept the Volunteers off the board at halftime.
### Central-Clay County’s Response
The Volunteers refused to let the contest slip away. In the third quarter, Central-Clay County’s running back burst outside for a lengthy gain, setting up a tying touchdown.
– The Volunteers’ offensive line opened rare running
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