Defensive takeaways, Samuel power Niners to critical road win

If this was the 49ers’ swan song in California for the season, they went out in victorious fashion, rallying for a 23-20 upset Sunday over the host Los Angeles Rams.

Robbie Gould’s 42-yard field goal won it as time expired, only after Kyle Juszczyk converted on a fourth-and-1 run and Deebo Samuel capped his 134-yard receiving day with key catches on the winning drive.

It was only the 49ers’ fifth win in 11 games. Most pertinent, it was their fourth on the road, which is where they’ll likely remain through December for a daunting playoff chase.

Defense undoubtedly keyed

Sunday’s road win. Jimmie Ward forced two fumbles, Richard Sherman made a first-quarter interception in his long-awaited comeback and rookie Javon Kinlaw swiftly returned an interception for a touchdown and 14-3 lead just after halftime.

Running back Raheem Mostert (touchdown run) and Samuel made impressive returns after multi-game absences, helping offset Nick Mullens’ mixed day throwing the ball in his fourth start in place of Jimmy Garoppolo. Mullens’ moxie came through in the fourth quarter, however, as he led a drive to put the 49ers in position for Gould’s winning kick.

This was the 49ers’ fourth straight win over the Rams, who entered the game at 7-3 and tied atop the NFC West with the Seattle Seahawks. It was the Rams’ first loss at Sofi Stadium.

The 49ers (5-6) are scheduled to play their next two at home, but that won’t be at Levi’s Stadium because of the Santa Clara County ban, which goes into effect Monday. The Arizona Cardinals’ and the Dallas Cowboys’ stadiums are reportedly the most likely spots for the 49ers to seek refuge. The 49ers are set to play at Dallas on Dec. 20 and at Arizona on Dec. 26 or 27.