The Augusta Spartans are building a reputation as strong finishers. They're trying to seal that reputation with a championship.

For the second consecutive year, the Spartans played strong down the stretch and closed out their home schedule with an exciting victory at James Brown Arena.

They held off the Osceola Ghostriders 25-19 Saturday night in the World Indoor Football League's first playoff game. Augusta advances to the championship game Saturday night against the host Columbus Lions, in what the first-year, four-team league is calling World Indoor Bowl I.

The Spartans (9-6) have won three games in a row and four of five heading into the title tilt against Columbus (10-4), the regular-season champions.

"We know it's not going to be easy. We know we're going to have to go out and get it," said Spartans receiver Anthony Young, who scored two touchdowns in Saturday's win.

In the WIFL's lowest scoring game this season, Osceola had a chance to go ahead in the final minute, but Augusta's Kijana Thomas preserved the victory with his second interception. It came after the Ghostriders appeared to score off of a deflection with 45 seconds left, but that play was negated by a penalty.

"We knew they would play us hard, but I'm really pleased with how the defense played," Spartans coach Bubba Diggs said. "I'm just so happy we're going to the championship."

Despite a strong finish last season in the American Indoor Football League, the Spartans failed to make the playoffs. Saturday night they'll play for a shot to become the WIFL's first champion.

To beat Columbus, they'll have to be much better offensively.

Augusta managed only 75 total yards, quarterback Mike Rathe threw four interceptions and MVP candidate Marvin Stone was held scoreless.

But Young and running back Willie Butler, who also scored twice, provided enough.

"That's what makes us such a dangerous team," Young said. "When one guy maybe doesn't have a great night, the other guys can pick him up."

The Lions and Spartans split their four meetings during the regular season. Each team won its two home games.

Reach Steve Sanders at (706) 823-3216 or steven.l.sanders@augustachronicle.com.