Backed by a staunch defensive effort, El Reno High School’s football team advanced out of the first round of the 2008 Class 5A playoffs Friday night with a 27-19 win over Durant.

El Reno, ranked No. 9 in the final regular season poll, improved to 9-2 on the season and will host Miami in the quarterfinal round at Memorial Stadium.

El Reno scored 14 first-period points as quarterback Jakeil Everheart threw for one touchdown and ran for another – both plays over 40 yards.

The Indians sandwiched an Eric Venegas field goal between two Durant scores and led 17-13 right before half. Venegas added a second field goal to extend that lead to 20-13.

El Reno scored a touchdown in the fourth period on its longest carry from scrimmage this season. Durant scored on the final play of the game to make it a eight-point margin.

Both teams finished with over 300 yards in total offense.