The Atlantis University Flag Football team put up a fierce fight against the Saints but came up just one point short in a hard-fought 14-13 loss. From start to finish, it was a game filled with momentum swings, clutch plays, and relentless determination from our ladies on the field.
The Saints struck first, finding the end zone in the opening quarter to take a 6-0 lead after failing to convert on their extra-point attempt. But AU wasted no time responding.
In the second quarter, Angenai Martin made her presence felt in a big way—scoring a touchdown to tie the game while also making two crucial interceptions on defense to keep the Saints in check. On the defensive side, Kayla Anderson was a force to be reckoned with, pulling multiple flags and recording a couple of key sacks, keeping the Saints' offense under pressure.
Leading the offense was quarterback Shavala IA, who showed flashes of strong decision-making and poise under pressure.
While she delivered some solid plays, there were also a few misfires—passes that missed their mark or plays where the timing wasn't quite right. Despite the occasional errors, she led the team with confidence and kept the offense moving.With both teams locked in a defensive battle, neither side found the scoreboard again until the fourth quarter, when the Saints managed to break through with another touchdown. This time, they capitalized on the extra-point attempt, pushing their lead to 14-6.
However, AU refused to back down. With just 42 seconds left on the clock, quarterback Syriah Williams launched a crucial pass to Sakhiia Mason, who hauled in the touchdown to bring AU within one point.
The pressure was on for the extra-point attempt, and once again, Angenai Martin stepped up, converting the play to bring the score to 14-13. Despite the late surge, time ran out before AU could complete the comeback, sealing the narrow defeat.
Proud Effort, Bright Future
Though the result wasn't in their favor, the AU Flag Football team showed incredible grit, resilience, and playmaking ability throughout the game. Angenai Martin shined on both sides of the ball with her touchdown, two interceptions, and extra-point conversion, while Sakhiia Mason and Syriah Williams connected for a clutch late-game score. Kayla Anderson was a key defensive playmaker, and Shavala IA continued to develop as a leader under center.
On the sidelines, Coach Thompson was highly engaged, actively guiding and motivating the team throughout the game. Her leadership is already making a strong impact, and it's clear that the AU Flag Football program is in great hands with her at the helm. This game serves as a learning experience and a stepping stone for the team as they move forward. AU will take this energy and channel it into their next challenge.