Fullerton Runs Past Sonora, 23-14

With a slippery and muddy Fullerton District Staduim field to play on, Fullerton High School turned to a steady running attack to grind out a 23-14 Freeway League victory over Sonora Friday night.

Running back Steve DePhillips led the Indians with 22 carries for 190 yards, including a 93-yard touchdown run for Fullerton’s first score.

“Considering the field conditions, we had to play conservatively,” Fullerton Coach Steve Nishimoto said. “Our backs really ran hard, and our line did a good job out in front of them.

“Steve (DePhillips) did a really good job tonight. He’s a great kid, and he plays well both ways . . . and is only a junior.”

The victory gives Fullerton (2-7, 2-2) a shot at third place in the league and a possible playoff berth if it beats Troy next week and La Habra loses to Sunny Hills.

Though Fullerton’s ground attack dominated the game, the Indians’ defense came up with the winning score. With the score tied, 14-14, in the fourth quarter, Sonora quarterback Billy Robb fumbled near his end zone as he was hit by the pass rush.

Fullerton defensive back Derreck Cathey recovered the ball in the end zone, giving the Indians a 21-14 lead with more than eight minutes left.

Fullerton’s final points came on a safety late in the game as a bad snap on a Sonora (3-5-1, 0-4) punt went out of the end zone.