by 
Superior Sun
The ninth-ranked Panthers fell behind early in their first playoff game appearance since 2011, trailing eighth-ranked Glendale Prep by two touchdowns in the first quarter. But they didn’t let the early deficit stop them as they came from behind to defeat the Griffins, 66 – 54.
Last Saturday’s win was only the second playoff victory for the Panthers since 1998. The 2011 team also won a first round playoff game.
“In a playoff game, with a lot of underclassmen, getting down early can be detrimental for many teams,” Superior head coach Ryan Palmer said after the game. “But not these kids.”
The Panthers got themselves back in the game with a couple of defensive stops and some quick scores. After trailing by four points at the end of the first quarter they outscored the Griffins in the second quarter to take the lead at halftime, 38 – 32.
As he has all season, sophomore quarterback Nicolaus Cruz led the Panthers’ offensive attack, throwing for five touchdowns and rushing for three more. He finished the game with 526 total offensive yards, including 357 passing and 169 rushing.
Cruz threw touchdown passes to Matthew Zavala, Elias Olmos, Michael Salazar (2), and Austin Navarrette. Sophomore running back Edgar Pacheco rushed for a touchdown.
The defense recovered four fumbles, giving the offense extra possessions which helped them outscore the Griffins in the second half, 28 – 22.
“There was never a question whether we were going to win or lose,” an elated Palmer said. “Our kids knew that if we could just minimize the defensive mistakes and make a few adjustments on offense we would win.”
“They played with poise and confidence and I am extremely proud of this team.”
Their reward for winning only their second playoff game since 1998?
A quarter-final matchup at undefeated and top-ranked Bagdad this Saturday.
“We are going to work extremely hard this week to prepare for the defending state champions,” Palmer said. “Our kids are excited to prove what we can do, what we have worked so hard for all year.”
“No better stage then against the top ranked team in the state.”
The Panthers don’t seem to be intimidated by the Sultans. And sometimes that’s half the battle; avoiding defeat before even getting on the field. The offense has shown it can produce championship caliber results. The defense will need to show the same, starting this week.
“We still have not played our best game,” Palmer said. “We need to come out and play with confidence and determination.”
“I can guarantee that these kids will be prepared, motivated, and will leave it all on the field this week.”
This week would be a good time for the Panthers to play their best game of the season. Their third playoff win since 1998 awaits them if they do.
Andrew Luberda began writing for Copper Area News Publishers (CANP) in February 2013 after working 15 years in Healthcare Financial Management. Andy covers sports for 11 high schools. His stories are published in Copper Basin News, San Manuel Miner and Superior Sun, in addition to the San Tan Valley Daily PRSS and CopperArea websites. Additionally, he has written human interest stories and business profiles. In May 2012, he earned an AAS in Sports Management at Central Arizona College before graduating with a BS in Communication from Arizona State University in 2014. He and his wife, Kelli, have three sons – AJ, Kyle, and Kade.
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