Football: Sylmar outlasts San Fernando in double overtime

Sylmar first-year Coach Chris Richards is doing one of the best jobs in the City Section this season. His team will enter the playoffs with a five-game winning streak after rallying to defeat San Fernando, 47-40, in double overtime.

Jamere Austin scored the winning touchdown on a 25-yard reception from freshman quarterback Clarence Williams.

Everything changed for the Spartans (7-3, 5-1) when Williams was promoted to varsity. He's 6 feet 1 and 150 pounds.

"Every game he rises to the occasion," Richards said. "He's a special kid."

Sylmar ended up finishing second to Van Nuys in the Valley Mission League. Sylmar picked up the No. 14 seed in the City Section Division I playoffs and will face No. 3 Venice.

-- Eric Sondheimer