HERSHEY – It was uncharted waters for the Cheltenham Panthers Friday Night. They had never played in Hersheypark Stadium for an opportunity to get to a state championship game. Cheltenham and Cocalico threw haymakers at one another all night long. When it was all said and done, Nate Edwards’ TD with 45 ticks remaining catapulted Cheltenham into the 5A Game 56-49.
Following the game, Cocalico Head Coach Dave Gingrich Shocked many people announcing he was stepping down after 16 years.
The Cheltenham Triplets of quarterback Adonis Hunter, right end TJ Harris and running back Nate Edwards, paced a potent Panthers offensive attack. Cocalico’s Quarterback Noah Palm’s gutsy performance lifted the Eagles all night long.
“There is something special about this group. There is something special about this year,” said Panthers Head Coach Ryan Nase after the win. “ I think we deserve the trip back next week and an opportunity to play Archbishop Wood.”
Cocalico’s opening drive ended with a turnover. Cheltenham quickly took advantage to break out on top 8-0 on a Nate Edwards 50-yard run.
Cocalico did not waste any time in getting on the board.
Cocalico then moved in front with some goal line trickery.
Less than a minute later Jamir Barnes put Cheltenham back on top.
Cocalico came right back, led by QB Noah Palm.
Cheltenham QB Adonis Hunter quickly hit Jamir Barnes on a 69-yard catch and run. It was Cheltenham back up 22-20. With time running down in the half Cheltenham then moved out to a 29-20 lead at the break.
Cocalico scored first in the second half to get to within two, 29-27.
TJ Harris’ fine catch and run put Cheltenham back on top.
No quit in Cocalico. A bruising drive got the Eagles within one.
The next Eagle possession moved them back on top once again.
This wild game turned again on the kickoff. TJ Harris went 88 yards to the house. It was 42-41 Panthers with 9:44 left. And just that quick Noah Palm took it to the house for the Eagles.
Just that quick again we were tied.
Cheltenham took over for one final drive. The Panthers moved right down the field. Nate Edwards scored to send the Panthers to the 5A title game.
