The Branford Buccaneers are headed to the playoffs. 

ORLANDO, Fla. — The Branford High School football team is heading to the playoffs for the first time since 2000.

The Buccaneers (6-4) defeated Cornerstone Charter (Orlando) 40-13 on Friday to clinch a spot in the postseason.

“It’s a great feeling, because the playoffs were something I never got to experience as a player,” said BHS alum and second-year Bucs head coach Tim Clark.

“As far as it happening in a short time, that’s just the product of a talented group of kids that came together and bought what we’re selling. This is all them. I just hope groups in the future learn from this team and continue to raise the expectations higher and higher.”

Branford left no doubt in the regular-season finale, taking a 32-0 lead into halftime.

“Aaron McQuay had a huge night,” Clark said. “Our starting defense played very well again, pitching a three-quarter shutout before we subbed the full group.”