Coconino Falls In The First Round Of The 4A State Football Playoffs

Coconino played its first playoff game in 14 years, the first-ever at Cromer Stadium, Friday night against Gila Ridge Hawks. The Panthers led from the start to about the mid-way through the fourth quarter when Gila Ridge took over the lead for good, defeating Coconino 10-9. Running back Zach Bennett had 22 carries for 103 yards to lead the Panthers. Renan Duarte had 23 carries for 146 yards to lead the Hawks to the 4A quarterfinals. Coconino finishes the season with a 9-2 mark. Gila Ridge advances to the quarters to take on top-seeded Sahuaro next Friday in Tucson.