Defense and ball possession propelled the Timberwolves past visiting the Buffaloes in Monday’s 3-0 victory over Manteca High.

Sierra High coach Joe Pires highlighted those points as steady drizzle at Daniel Teicheira Stadium poured over this Valley Oak League affair.

The result of that were slick field conditions that made it tough for both teams.

“There were not many quality finishes for us,” said Pires.

Buffaloes coach Daniel Guevara added: “The rains changed our strategy – weather like this put our goal keeper at a disadvantage.”

Evident of that took place during the game’s first score. Sierra (3-1 VOL, 7-4-1) was able to capitalize on its chance while Manteca (0-3 VOL, 0-8) was not as fortunate.

At the 11-minute mark of the game, Tristan Gonzalez drilled a 30-yard unassisted goal from left wing as the wet ball slipped past the grasp of the goalie.

The Buffaloes had their shot moments later as Sierra’s freshman goal keeper Luis Acosta slipped but the shot missed its mark.

The Timberwolves added to their 1-0 lead as Gonzalez hit a near-identical goal as that of his previous one. This one was from 20 yards out, taking place in the 17th minute.

Sierra relied on team work for its final goal. Junior forward Miguel Villasenor delivered a pass to Alex Mata, who scored from 15 yards out at the 25th minute.

Manteca had several chances at goal during the second half.

Acosta, who had eight saves, thwarted an attack early on and, later, got out of trouble by stopping shot attempts by the Buffaloes’ Alexis Lopez and Alex Herrera.

Saul Aguiniga, who came as goalie later on for Sierra, popped out for a save in the closing minutes.

“We had our chances,” Guevara said. “The game was a lot closer than the final score.”

Both teams will return to action on Wednesday.

Manteca will travel to Lathrop for a 5:30 p.m. VOL game while the Timberwolves will go to Modesto to face Central Catholic.