HEMET — Only the Strong survive.

Terrell Strong had four touchdown runs – including a game-winning 80-yard score in the fourth quarter – as Tahquitz hung on to defeat Santa Monica, 41-35, in a CIF-Southern Section Division 10 semifinal on Friday night.

“It was a real nail-biter,” Strong said. “We’re very fortunate to come out on top, but that’s all that matters in the playoffs. You have to find a way to win.”

Strong finished with 192 yards on 27 carries as Tahquitz (10-3 overall) set a new school record for wins in a single season while advancing to the program’s first section title game.

“He’s our car and we’re going to drive him for one more week and see what happens,” Tahquitz coach Stephon Pace said. “I cannot say enough about what he’s accomplished this year.”

Tahquitz advances t

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