Last Friday night the Elder Panthers and Moeller Crusaders faced off in a monumental GCL South showdown. The Panthers came into the game with a 12-5 overall record and a 2-1 record in GCL South play, while Moeller boasted a 14-1 overall record and 3-0 GCL South record.

Moeller came into the game as the large favorite, being ranked second in the state. As for every GCL South game, no team is just going to roll over because of a team’s high ranking. The Panthers showed no fear of the big bad Crusaders.

Despite getting off to a slow start, the Panthers fought back valiantly to bring it close down the stretch. They entered the fourth quarter trailing by eight, but managed to reduce that gap and tie the game with a chance to win the game at the end of regulation. Though they were unable to convert a game-winning bucket, the Panthers did enough to force overtime.

The Panthers didn’t let this rattle them, and with help from the insanely loud cheering section, the Panthers fought on. In overtime, both teams grinded out each possession and managed only two points each, and the teams headed to a second OT.

In the second OT the Crusaders found some luck with a three pointer that bricked off the rim before falling in. After an Elder bucket, the Crusaders made two free throws to make it a three point game.

The Panthers tried to find a little more magic on the last play, but came up short on a three pointer that would have tied the game.

Despite the loss, Elder showed that they can play with anyone and no one left Elder Memorial Fieldhouse disappointed in our Panthers.

Though the loss has deterred Elder from being able to control their own destiny in the GCL South, with a little help from LaSalle or St. X, the Panthers just might be able to take home a share of the GCL Title.