The Little Paxton Panthers Flag Football team delivered an outstanding performance at this year’s tournament, earning their spot in the NFL Regional Finals after a series of hard-fought and memorable games.
The Panthers kicked off their campaign against the Bury Broncos. Despite a shaky start and spending most of the game pinned in their own half, they showed true resilience. Bury scored an early touchdown but failed to convert the bonus point, leaving the score at 6-0. In the dying seconds, a brilliant pass from Harry found Ethan in the endzone to tie the game. The Panthers kept their composure and secured the all-important bonus point to steal an 8-6 victory.
Game two saw the Panthers face Crosshall Chiefs. This time, Little Paxton dominated from start to finish. The defence was impenetrable, giving Crosshall no opportunity to get into the game. The Panthers attacked with confidence and style, finishing with a commanding 22-0 win and a spot in the quarter-finals.
In the quarters, the Panthers went head-to-head with Brampton Bears. It was a tense and cagey affair with both teams locked at 0-0 for most of the game. With just five minutes to go, Little Paxton came alive, securing two interception touchdowns in quick succession to seal a dramatic win and a place in the semi-finals.
After a short break, the Panthers faced Westfield Ravens in another nail-biter. Once again, it was the Panthers’ rock-solid defence that stole the show. A late touchdown made the difference, earning them a gritty 6-0 victory and a place in the final—along with a guaranteed spot in the NFL Regional Finals.
The final pitched Little Paxton against the strong Houghton Jaguars. The Panthers were in control throughout and looked set to lift the trophy, but an Ethan touchdown was disallowed due to a technical foul. In a heartbreaking finish, Houghton snuck into the endzone in the final play of the game to snatch the win.
Despite the narrow defeat in the final, it was an incredible tournament for the Panthers. Their grit, teamwork, and talent earned them a well-deserved place in the NFL Regional Finals, where they will proudly represent Huntingdonshire.
Well done to the entire team: Molly, Ethan, Aubin, Harry, Thomas, Noah, Owen, Diaz, Charlie, and Amelia—you made us proud!
