NFL Game Summary - Atlanta at San Francisco

San Francisco, CA (SportsNetwork.com) - The San Francisco 49ers nearly squandered a chance to clinch a postseason berth Monday, but found a little late magic in what could be the final game at Candlestick Park.

NaVorro Bowman's 89-yard interception return for a touchdown late in regulation essentially sealed the Niners' 34-24 win over the Atlanta Falcons and kept San Francisco's hope of a No. 1 seed in the NFC alive.

The 49ers (11-4) need plenty of help next week to secure home-field advantage throughout the playoffs, but can breathe a sigh of relief knowing they are at least qualified for the postseason after Matt Ryan nearly rallied Atlanta out of a 10-point hole.

Ryan found Tony Gonzalez for a 2-yard touchdown with 2:09 remaining to bring the Falcons within 27-24, and Jason Snelling secured the ensuing onsides kick with a one-handed snag along the sideline.

Atlanta moved to the San Francisco 10-yard line with 1:31 to play, and Ryan threw a short pass intended for Harry Douglas that was disrupted by Tramaine Brock. The ball was tipped in the air, and Bowman snagged it and went untouched the other way, diving into the end zone as a delirious Candlestick Park crowd celebrated.