Deer Valley works overtime to climb hill in Goodyear

Deer Valley’s uphill trip to Estrella Foothills Thursday was a metaphor as much as it was a bus ride.

The last two years the Wolves beat the Skyhawks with the region title on the line, and last year’s win was for — in effect — a 4A playoff berth.

With a more experienced team, Deer Valley dominated the first 18 minutes in Goodyear — other than on the scoreboard. Three red zone trips translated to a mere 7-0 lead, allowing the Wolves to adjust and drag the Skyhawks into overtime.

But all the doubts Dan Friedman’s team had about beating its new rival evaporated on its first play of overtime. Senior Adan Sanchez took a delayed wraparound draw and the barrier was gone. He ran untouched for the 10-yard touchdown and the battered Skyhawks erupted in celebration.

“I didn’t know what the play w