Halifax Panthers Triumph Over London Roosters in Grand Final
The Halifax Panthers claimed victory over the London Roosters with a score of 42-32 in a thrilling Grand Final of the Wheelchair Super League held at the Manchester Basketball Centre on September 30, 2023. The match was not only a display of skill but also a fierce physical contest, showcasing the intense rivalry between these two teams, who have faced off multiple times this season.
Halifax and London have established themselves as top competitors, with the Panthers previously defeating the Roosters in the Challenge Cup final and securing the League Leaders’ Shield. The Roosters entered the Grand Final with an impressive record, having suffered only one loss during the regular season, a setback that came at the hands of the Panthers.
The game began with excitement as 15-year-old sensation Casper Wass scored the opening try for London, marking the first of three tries he would achieve during the match. The early momentum, however, quickly shifted as tensions escalated. An aggressive tackle from London’s Mason Billington resulted in a yellow card, marking the first sin binning in Wheelchair Super League Grand Final history. The incident highlighted the match’s physical nature, as Billington’s actions led to a scuffle with Halifax’s Rob Hawkins.
Despite the rough play, Halifax’s Jack Brown emerged as a standout performer. Following a well-placed pass from captain-coach Wayne Boardman, Brown showcased his agility and speed, scoring multiple tries throughout the match. His first half hat-trick included a remarkable break where he dodged Billington, demonstrating his exceptional skills on the court. Brown celebrated by brandishing a card that read, “It is what it is,” encapsulating the passion of the game.
As the match progressed, Halifax established a commanding lead, ultimately going up 20-6. London attempted to narrow the deficit with a try from Lewis King, but the Panthers responded decisively. Brown scored again, reinforcing Halifax’s dominance and extending their lead. Although Wass managed to score a final try for London in the closing minutes, it was not enough to shift the outcome.
Reflecting on the match, Brown emphasized the importance of teamwork, stating, “You’re only as good as the team you’ve got around you. This is the most connected team I’ve played in.” His remarks underscored the camaraderie within the Halifax squad and the collective effort that propelled them to victory.
The Grand Final served as a thrilling conclusion to a competitive season, further solidifying the Halifax Panthers’ reputation in the Wheelchair Super League. With both teams demonstrating skill and resilience, fans are left eagerly anticipating their next encounter.
