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Sierra lets late lead, possible playoff berth slip away in Sonora
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SONORA — Needing a win to have a realistic shot at the playoffs, Sierra saw a fourth-quarter lead evaporate Friday against host Sonora, as the Wildcats downed the Timberwolves 51-37 in Valley Oak League action at Dunlavey Field.

“Our kids fought hard until the end,” Sierra coach Jeff Harbison said.

Two fourth-quarter interceptions for Sonora (4-1, 6-2 overall) were critical in the Wildcats’ comeback, with one of those leading directly to a Sonora score. Once ahead by two touchdowns, Sonora played ball control and kept the Sierra’s offense off of the field.

Two third-quarter touchdown runs by quarterback Tony Perea – one of 26 yards and one of 4 – helped give the Timberwolves (2-3, 3-5) a 37-35 lead going into the final period.

Perea also scored on a 1-yard run in the second quarter, finishing with 69 yards on 14 carries to go with 24 completions and three interceptions in 44 attempts.

Jayson Manuta (12 carries, 77 yards) scored on runs of 1 yard and 2 yards for Sierra and Alex Zepeda gave the Timberwolves a 3-0 lead in the first quarter with a 34-yard field goal.

Zach Penirian was Perea’s favorite target with 10 receptions for 122 yards. Jordan Lewis added eight receptions for 107 yards and Tyler Clark 90 yards on four catches.

Clark had an interception with Devin Manois and Tyler Ray Hewitt each making a fumble recovery for Sierra.