Friday night lights returned, and our Panthers played their second home game of the season on Friday, Aug. 22. Plant played against Wiregrass Ranch in a nail-biting match, due to the score going back and forth between the teams. The game ended in a 28-20 victory for Plant.
The tone for the game was set nervously after No. 13, “Big JB,” (12) was injured and rushed off the field. JB had been tackled and was having trouble walking; then the ambulance arrived minutes later. While he was being driven away from the field, both stands started clapping, and the Plant team gathered in a circle to say a prayer for their teammate.
From there, the second quarter was a battle. The opposing team had scored a touchdown and held the lead for a while. By half-time, the score was not looking in our favor, but that served as motivation to come back from the losing side.
The stress of a teammate down and physical disputes were evident in the first two quarters. As soon as half-time was called, Plant walked into the fieldhouse to discuss the next steps and give motivation. Coach Michael Rivera is one of the many football coaches at Plant, and he is responsible for personal growth. Moments of distress and anxiety from the players are when he gets the chance to level with them and offer encouragement. “Most of the time, the players get in their own heads and just need a personal talk to be able to lock in,” Rivera said.
Sure enough, the third quarter brought some of the biggest plays of the night. Quarterback, Tripp Brown (12), threw a catch to Dorrell Ford (12), resulting in a score of 20–20, making the game’s winner up in the air. Soon after that, Davie Rolle (12) made a kick in the goal, advancing the score to 21-20, closing the third quarter.
While both teams held firm, the clock was ticking in the fourth quarter, and the victory was on the line for both teams. Our offense took full advantage, pushing down the field and scoring one last touchdown to make it 28–20. Brown threw a 10-yard pass into receiver David Delgardo’s (12) hands for the win. From that moment on, the defense held firm, refusing to let up on any chance of victory.
The last few minutes were pure celebration. Fans were stomping in the bleachers, the band kept the fight song blasting, and the team was feeding off the energy. When the clock finally ran out, players hugged, fans cheered, and the student section broke into a loud chant. It was a great way to start the season at home.
What stood out most wasn’t just the score, but the spirit of the community. The stands were filled with cheering students, painted faces, and posters supporting the team. Alongside the football players were the Cheerleaders, keeping the spirit of the student section alive. With this win under their belt, Plant’s next game is against Gaither on Aug. 29.
