Seneca Valley receiver Brandon Ross evades a North Allegheny tackler during the game at NexTier Stadium Friday night.

JACKSON TWP — Having already turned in a great performance, Seneca Valley's defense was called back onto the field for one final round Friday night.

Leading 17-10, the Raiders were attempting to run out the clock when running back Nolan Dworek fumbled and North Allegheny's Nick Frisco recovered at SV's 35 with one minute, 28 seconds left in the game.

The Tigers drove the ball to the Raiders' 3-yard line, but on 3rd- and 4th-and goal, quarterback Logan Kushner was held short of the goal line.

Defensive lineman Aiden Lyczek made the initial hit to drop Kushner on fourth down and the Raiders took over at their own 2 with just two seconds remaining.

SV elected to kneel down in the end zone on the game's final play. The safety meant nothing as the Raiders celebrated a 17-12 victory over the rival Tigers at NexTier Stadium.

“Our defense was incredible tonight,” said SV coach Ron Butschle. “Our offense found ways to make plays and put together scoring drives when we needed it.

“This was a fantastic game.”

The win earns for the Raiders (5-2, 7-3) a bye into the WPIAL Class 6A semifinals. They will take on Central Catholic Nov. 12.

The Tigers (4-3, 6-4) will open the playoffs next Friday at home against Canon-McMillan.