Palmetto football hangs on to beat Columbus after wild, controversial finish in Miami
Palmetto had to survive a last-second scare, but it did just enough to hold off Columbus in a defensive battle that had one of the wildest finishes that you might see this year.
The Panthers edged the Explorers, 7-3, in a tight tussle at Tropical Park that came down to an officiating call on the final play.
Columbus quarterback Fernando Mendoza threw an interception in the end zone in the dying seconds before the ball was dropped near the goal line during Palmetto’s celebrations. The Explorers picked up the loose ball, prompting touchdown shouts and scenes of ecstasy between Columbus and its fans.
After some heated conversations and deliberation, though, the referees signaled that the final play had been whistled dead after the Panthers’ pick, giving the Panthers (3-1) the win in Miami.
“The time went out and the referee blew it dead and then all of a sudden they jumped on the ball,” Palmetto coach Mike Manasco said. “I am always worried when the game is not in my hands.”
Palmetto’s stingy defense led the way throughout the rowdy affair by making three interceptions, including two in the end zone during the final two minutes.
The Panthers constantly put Mendoza under pressure, too, forcing him into hurried passes, which kept the Explorers’ offense from getting going until late.
“We replaced 10 starters on our defense from last year,” Manasco said. “Very proud of those kids.”
The lone touchdown came late in the second quarter, with Jai-ayviauynn Celestine taking a direct snap before racing in from 2 yards out with 1:27 left to play in the half.
“Offensively, we need to do more of that,” Manasco said.
Columbus (1-3) responded immediately, making it 7-3 with a 27-yard field goal by kicker Luis Palenzuela with one second left before halftime.
That was as close as the Explorers got to scoring a touchdown until the final minutes, but the resolute Panthers’ defense came up with another big play that caused for a chaotic and exciting finish.
“That is just what high school football is all about,” Manasco said. “We are going to play again so it is going to be an even better game the next time I am sure.”
