Strath Haven’s Anthony Crawford runs for a first down in the first half Saturday, as the Panthers went on to defeat Springfield in District 1 Class 5A semifinal. (Pete Bannan – MediaNews Group)
By Bob Grotz
From the first hit to the last, the opening coin toss to the celebratory helmet toss, Strath Haven and Springfield put on a District 1 Class 5A football show Saturday worthy of another look.
Fans would feel every big hit, relive every big play and understand that the Panthers’ 36-19 victory over the Cougars not only was closer than the numbers indicated, but a battle so personal even the walking wounded refused to leave.
The undefeated and second-seeded Panthers (12-0) host West Chester Rustin, the third seed that rolled to a 31-7 win over Kennett at a site and time to be detrmined. It’s a rematch of the 2021 District 1 title won by the Panthers in double overtime.
The season is a wrap for the Cougars (8-4), who entered the contest with a six-game win streak and a bond they hope lasts forever.
The scoreboard checked out with 7:01 left in the first half after Sam Milligan’s one-yard run gave the Panthers their first lead. Not a problem. On this day, even in the hectic fourth quarter the guys kept their own score.
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Webmaster’s note: If you missed the game you can watch the archive at the top of this page.
