Russell Conwell for River Radio Sports Central
CARBONDALE — The Benton Rangers pulled off a pair of upsets to win the Nashville 2A Sectional, knocking of two 30+ win teams. The third 30-win team in a row proved too much, as Quincy Notre Dame pulled away late for a 55-36 win at the SIU Supersectional.
The Rangers had things going their way early, building a 19-10 second quarter lead, but the Raiders closed the half by scoring 10 straight to lead 20-19 at the half.
The game remain closed well into the fourth quarter. QND led 35-31 after three quarters, with Benton getting as close as two early in the fourth quarter. The Raiders put it away, closing the game by scoring 20 of the game’s final 25 points over the final four minutes.
QND improves to 31-1 and advances to face Chicago Farragut Thursday in the second 2A semifinal at 4:15. The Rangers finish their season 28-7.
