BRADENTON -- Cord Sandberg dropped back, bought some time and spun a pass toward the end zone Friday night.

In stride was receiver Ja Juan Pollock, who pulled in the 32-yard toss for a touchdown.

It was one of many Manatee scored during its 56-7 win over Venice in a Class 7A-Region 3 semifinal, but it was the last of Sandberg's career at Hawkins Stadium.

With the game well in hand, Sandberg didn't play during the second half. And Manatee (12-0) heads to Fort Pierce Central next week to play for the Region 3 title.

And if the Hurricanes win, they will be on the road for a state semi

final on Dec. 7.

"Last pass on this field was a touchdown pass," said Sandberg, a three-year starter who lost once at Hawkins Stadium once in his career. "That was pretty cool."

Manatee beat Venice for the sixth straight time, thanks in part to a defense that forced four turnovers and scored two touchdowns.

Now the Hurricanes, who won the Class 7A state title last year, are two wins away from getting a chance to defend their crown.