In a high-scoring thriller on Friday night, the Port Charlotte Pirates fell just short of an upset, dropping a 49–48 decision to the Zephyrhills Bulldogs at Zephyrhills.
The tight finish capped a game filled with big plays, momentum swings, and dramatic execution by both squads. From the opening kickoff, it was clear that both offenses were dialed in.
Zephyrhills built an early lead, and the Bulldogs’ efficiency on both air and ground forced the Pirates to play catch-up most of the night. Zephyrhills improved to a perfect 10–0 record with the win. Port Charlotte entered the contest at 8–1 and was attempting to solidify playoff seeding.
On the offensive front, Logan Flaherty paced the Pirates’ passing attack. The quarterback averaged 192.7 passing yards per game this season and showed his command again Friday night, keeping drives alive and the Pirates in striking distance. Running back Bruce Blanden led the ground game, averaging 63.7 rushing yards per contest as the team’s top rusher.
Defensively, Ahmad’Dra Greene anchored the unit, averaging 8.7 tackles per game. His presence was crucial in limiting breakaway plays and rallying the defense in the second half.
For Zephyrhills, offensive playmaker Patrick Harding's accuracy and poise under pressure proved to be the difference late. The Bulldogs’ defense held firm in the final minute, denying Port Charlotte’s last scoring attempt and sealing the narrow victory.
The turning point came in the final quarter, when Zephyrhills executed a go-ahead drive and scored a critical touchdown, forcing the Pirates into desperation mode. Port Charlotte responded with urgency, moving into field goal range with seconds remaining. However, the potential game-winner missed its mark, ending the comeback just short.
Now 8–2 overall with a 3–0 district record, the Pirates must regroup and refocus ahead of the postseason. All these close scores and last minute efforts deminstrate the importance of each and every earlier play and the "one play at a time" mentality.
As the Pirates look ahead, the keys will be defensive tightening and improved late-game execution. The passing attack showed explosive capability and the team demonstrated grit throughout. But in close contests, precision matters. For Port Charlotte, every detail will count in the weeks to come.
Should be fun!