PREP FOOTBALL : Freeway League : Troy’s Defense Keeps Warriors in Playoff Hunt

Troy High School kept its playoff hopes alive with a convincing 28-0 victory over Sonora in a Freeway League game Friday in front of 2,000 at Fullerton District Stadium.

The Warriors (6-2-1, 2-2) had been expected to win the league title, but lost crucial games to Fullerton and La Habra in a 3-week span and now must win their final game to have a chance of making the playoffs.

“This was a must-win situation,” Troy Coach John Turek said. “This was a big step toward making the playoffs, but I know we must win next week to stand any chance.”

Fullback Mark Stichter led Troy’s rushing attack with 205 yards and one touchdown in 16 carries. Quarterback Brad Zeppieri and halfback Chris Conway also rushed for touchdowns.

“Mark played a great game tonight,” Turek said. “His dad (Ken) is principal at Sonora, and he always seems to play a strong game against them.”

Sonora (1-8, 1-3), which was eliminated from playoff contention, had trouble mounting any offense.

The Raiders were held to 29 yards rushing and 44 yards passing. They crossed midfield for the first time with just under 5 minutes to play.

Even though Troy had 194 yards of offense in the first half, it was able to score only once. Stichter capped an 11-play, 59-yard drive by scoring on a quarterback sneak. Rob Duarte kicked the extra point for a 7-0 lead.

Troy eventually wore down the smaller Sonora team and scored 21 points in the final 11 minutes.

Conway scored on a 2-yard run. With 3:08 to play Stichter burst through the line and ran 44 yards for a touchdown.

Troy then added to Sonora’s problems when Duarte intercepted Kevin Hook’s pass with 2:41 to play and returned it 25 yards for a another score.

“It feels good to win again,” Turek said. “I was proud of our defense tonight, but we still have to win one more if we stand a chance to make the playoffs.”