PREP FOOTBALL : San Clemente Loses After Leading by 21

Canyon Country Canyon’s trademark running game roared to life in the second half as the Cowboys overcame a three-touchdown deficit and defeated San Clemente, 35-21, in the opener for both teams Friday night at San Clemente High.

Sean McDermott caught a screen pass from quarterback Sean Connelly and raced 91 yards for a touchdown on the second play of the third quarter as the Cowboys drew to within 21-14.

After a San Clemente fumble on the next possession, Canyon marched 55 yards in five plays with Ed Williams going the final nine yards behind a block by tackle Calvin McNeal. The third of Matt George’s five extra points tied the score with 8:13 left in the third.

Williams, who rushed for more than 1,500 yards last season as a sophomore, scored three times and gained 180 yards in 27 carries. McDermott rushed for 93 yards and had 113 yards receiving.

San Clemente took a 21-0 lead in the first 17 minutes.