Heading to the fourth quarter down 24-7, the Cooper football team rallied to score 20 unanswered points and take a lead on San Angelo Central in the final four minutes Friday at Shotwell Stadium.

But the 3:41 left on the clock after the Cougars’ go-ahead touchdown proved too much time in a gut-wrenching 31-27 loss to the Bobcats.

Taking possession at its own 25, Central drove 75 yards in 10 plays, converting three third downs — including a third-and-10 from its own 37-yard line, to regain the lead for good with a 9-yard touchdown pass from Christian English to Mason Van. That score, combined with an interception on the first play of the Cougars’ ensuing possession, allowed the Bobcats (1-2) to celebrate their first win under new coach Mark Smith, while dropping Cooper to 0-3.