Written By: JMF
The Fleming County Panthers traveled to Henry Clay for Friday Night Light action. In what became a thriller, the Panthers were able to overcome some early struggles and pull out a nail biter.
The Panthers would rally in the 3rd quarter and hold on in the 4th to pull out the season-opening victory for coach, Bill Spencer and the Panthers. Fleming County was trailing 18-7 in the 3rd quarter. Henry Clay had the ball and had all control in the game. That’s when Chris Collett would step up with a 60+ yard pick six that would turn the entire game in favor of the Panthers. Collett would pick off Rohan Taylor and return the interception for a TD that gave all the momentum to the visiting Panthers.
Late in the 3rd quarter, the Panthers would give the ball to their work-hoarse, Austin Trent. He would run in the go-ahead score, and the Panthers would not relinquish the lead. Austin Trent would carry the football 42 times for a total of 249 yards and two rushing touchdowns. In addition to his strong offensive efforts, Austin also had 2 solo tackles, 5 assisted tackles, for a total of 7 tackles on the night to lead his team to victory.
Both Aiden Johnson and Isaac Frye would chip in with 5 total tackles each, and each also recorded a sack each. Aiden would record 2 tackles for loss. Chris Collett had two tackles to go along with his momentum swinging interception. Jordan Harn had 3 tackles and an interception also.
Henry Clay’s QB, Rohan Taylor would go 6 for 15 for 139 yards through the air, 2 TDs, and 2 INTs. He would also run the ball 9 times for 31 yards on the ground. Walden Cole had 4 receptions for 127 yards and 2 TDs. On the defensive side, Luke DiNardo and Aly Gueye both had 13 tackles. Gueye had 2 tackles for loss and a sack. For their efforts in the win, Austin Trent would be named offensive player of the game, and Chris Collett would be named defensive player of the game, for the Panthers.
The Panthers will host Nicholas County next Friday, Aug. 25th for a 7:30 p.m. kickoff. While Henry Clay travels to face the Cooper Jaguars for a 7:30 p.m kickoff. Best of luck to both teams next week.
