Dons come from behind to win in 2-OT

FOOTBALL. Game date: September 24, 2011.

Santa Ana College quarterback Andrew McDonald connected with tight end Jacob Smith on the first play of the second overtime for a 25-yard touchdown, sealing the win against visiting Palomar.

“I held the safety with my eyes. I was able to hit Smith over the top and he made a great catch,” McDonald said.

The Dons’ (2-2) came from behind to defeat Palomar, 52-45, in double overtime, after trailing 31-21 to start the fourth quarter.

Palomar penalties helped fuel the comeback for the Dons. The Comets were flagged 13 times for 129 yards.

SAC scored back-to-back touchdowns in the final 4:39, tying the game at 38.

McDonald passed to receiver Ario Winston for a 2-yard touchdown pass with 14 seconds left in regulation to send the game into overtime.

“Ario ran a nice route, my offensive line gave me time to throw and we scored,” McDonald said.

Each team traded touchdowns to open the first overtime.

Comet quarterback David Fisher tucked the ball in and ran five yards for the 45-38 lead.

“It was a designated run-play action pass. The defense covered it perfect. I looked back to the right, knowing there was an open lane. I saw it and took it,” Fisher said.

On the eleventh play of Santa Ana’s drive, the Comets defense deflected a McDonald pass intended for receiver John Evangelista. Dons’ receiver Josh Webb caught the 4-yard throw for a touchdown, sending the game into a second overtime.

“You have to go in there expecting the ball. I just happened to be in the right spot at the right time,” Webb said.

The Dons will host Long Beach City College October 1 on homecoming weekend.

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