Dietz helps Union County to fend off Washington-Wilkes

BLAIRSVILLE -- Joseph Mancuso and Chase Barnett did their usual damage on Friday -- but it was the fingertips of Brett Dietz that perhaps made the difference for Union County.<br /> <br /> Dietz blocked a point after touchdown attempt from Washington-Wilkes with just 2:45 on the clock and then recovered a Tigers fumble at the Union 11 with 1:03 remaining -- plays that the Panthers made hold up as they marched on to a 35-34 win in Blairsville.<br /> <br /> The victory clinched the No. 2 seed from Region 8-AA for Union County (9-1, 5-1 Region 8-AA). The Panthers will play host to Model in the first round of the Class AA playoffs next week.<br /> <br /> Mancuso paced the Panthers on offense, completing 17 of 28 passes for 312 yards and 4 touchdowns. Barnett also rushed for 74 yards and a score and also caught a 6-yard scoring pass.<br /> <br /> Jacob Rogers led all receivers with 103 yards and two scores on three catches. Sam Gilbert also had six catches for 94 yards and a score.