Heffron, Chandler cruise past Perry

October 28, 2023 by Ben Stapley, AZPreps365


Chandler running back Ca’Lil Valentine eludes a Perry defender Friday night. (Photo by Jake Jurado)

There are no easy wins in the 6A Premiere Region, but Chandler made it look that way Friday night.  

The Wolves traveled to Perry, jumped out to a 21-0 lead and never looked back during a 49-7 victory over the Pumas. 

Chandler quarterback Blake Heffron threw two touchdown passes and ran for another, while the Wolves (7-2, 2-1) chewed up 247 yards on the ground. In three region games, the Heffron-led offense has averaged 46 points. 

Chandler will now prepare for next week’s showdown against arch rival Hamilton. 

“I think the momentum and intensity from last week’s game rolled over tonight,” said receiver Jaxon Branch, referring to the Wolves 47-42 shootout loss to Basha. 

“We knew we had to take care of business tonight and we couldn’t afford a loss. And with Blake at quarterback we know we’re in good hands. He’s a complete football player and he does so much for our offense.”

Branch caught both of Effron’s touchdowns in the first half. Both came on third down plays in the red zone, and both were pinpoint passes in heavy traffic. 
 

Running back Ca’Lil Valentine added two rushing touchdowns, including a 65-yard run in the second quarter, as Chandler took a 28-7 lead into halftime. 

Perry’s Kolton Coleman scored the Pumas lone touchdown on a 97-yard kickoff return in the second quarter. But Perry’s offense only mustered two first downs in the first half. 

Defensive back Jojo Taylor III intercepted two passes for Chandler. 

It was an emotional scene at John Wrenn Stadium even before the game began. Perry coach Joe Ortiz was dealing with the passing of his father early Friday morning. Despite not sleeping in nearly 36 hours, Ortiz knew he needed to be with his team Friday night.

“It was a tough night and it’s been a tough day. I’ve never cried so much in my life. But I wanted to get back here to feel some type of normalcy, and I know Dad was watching from above."

Perry (7-2, 1-2) will travel to Basha next week.