VERNON — Argyle used a 27-4 run in the second quarter to break open a close game and cruise to a 78-35 win on Tuesday in a Class 3A Region I area round playoff game.

The Eagles (33-3) increased their defensive pressure and accumulated five steals during the decisive run, which allowed Argyle to open up a 45-16 halftime advantage.

“We were really able to turn up our defensive pressure and were able to force some turnovers and get some transition points,” said Argyle head coach John King. “We were able to get our post men involved and get some easy buckets.”

In the third quarter, Argyle scored off another five turnovers by Borger (15-16), which was limited to six points in the frame.

Meanwhile, Argyle was able to exploit a size advantage by involving senior center Cory Dixon, who scored 20 of his season-high 31 points in the first half.

“We talked about trying to get the ball inside,” King said. “Our inside game was quite effective tonight.”

The Eagles advance to play Vernon in the regional quarterfinals next week at a time and place to be determined.

King said he was pleased with the way his team responded in its 2008 playoff debut.

“Sometimes that first one is the hardest one to get because there’s always some nerves involved,” King said. “They have some momentum and had some confidence, and we sat out Tuesday night. This was a nice one to get behind us.”