The Central Hayneville Lions proved why they were ranked No. 1 in the state Wednesday night easily defeating Northwest Region Champs the Weaver Bearcats in the state semi-finals in Birmingham, 80-60.

Though details were not available at press time, Central will face the winner of Sumter County vs. Danville at the state finals on Saturday at noon.

Central defeated Abbeville Saturday, 64-58, despite being down by eight points in the final quarter.

Only after several baskets in the final minute did Central gain the lead and finish the game on top.

"The full court press at the end really made the difference," senior Tramayne Moore said.

"That really turned it around. Last time I went to Birmingham I was in the ninth grade. We're ready for it and not too nervous."

Though Hayneville got the initial basket from tip off, Abbeville out-shot the Lions to hold a lead of eight until 40 second left in the first period with the Lions regained the lead.

The second quarter belonged to the Lions with the half ending 33-24.

The third quarter saw the seesaw swing the other way as Abbeville came out and out-shot Central 17-7.

The Lions clamped down in the fourth quarter but were only able to narrow the margin to a six-point lead by Abbeville with 2 minutes left in the game.

Calling a time-out, Head Coach Todd Reynolds switched the team's plan to the press and Central came out with renewed vigor.

Within 20 seconds, the Lions had regained the lead and free throws from Jessie Harris put Central out to a four-point lead.

Harris finished the night with 20 points. Tramayne Moore hit 18 and LaTravis Brazil had 15.

Travis McReynolds hit three points and Tony Longmire, Antwene Rudolph and Henery Hobowski each had two.