In a surprising turn of events, both underdogs advanced to the championship game in the Fall Flag Football West Division.  It shouldn’t be much of a surprise, though, with Humongous Melonheads and Manila Monstars both showing flashes of greatness throughout the season.  Putting it all together at just the right time, both teams mounted impressive postseason runs.  However, after battling to squeak into the playoffs and knock off the top ranked team, the daunting tasks may have finally caught up with Humongous Melonheads.

          Through most of the first half, it looked like Manila Monstars just had their opponent’s number and would turn in a blowout on this night.  They looked to have the game well in hand, jumping to an early 18-0 lead on two offensive touchdowns and a pick 6.  Humongous Melonheads, however, had other plans.  They did exactly what they needed to do.  They marched down the field to finish the half with a score, stealing momentum and coming out with the ball in the second half.  Humongous Melonheads continued to fight their way back into the game, and scored on the first drive of the second half to cut the deficit to just 4 points.  The defense stiffened and did their part, as well  As a result, Humongous Melonheads were able to successfully come back and take a 20-18 lead.  Instead of crumbling, however, Manila Monstars stood tall under the immense pressure.  With great poise, they would move the ball down the field and answer right back with a touchdown of their own.  Adding a two-point conversion, Manila Monstars took a 6 point lead with under 10 minutes to go in the game.  After a huge 3rd down stop deep in their opponent’s territory, Manila Monstars forced Humongous Melonheads to rely on a defensive hold of their own.  Instead, Manila Monstars’ offense would get the job done again, marching down the field and putting the game ultimately out of reach.  Down 33-20, Humongous Melonheads would not give up without a fight.  They scored a quick touchdown, again bringing them to within one score.  Down 6 and needing one more hold to keep their slim hopes alive, Humongous Melonheads committed a crushing penalty that placed Manila Monstars just a few yards away from a first down and the victory.  Manila Monstars did not play timid all game, and would not start there.  Caution to the wind, they made a gutsy 3rd down play to go deep and sealed the game.  They were then able to sit on the ball and walk away victorious, clinching the championship crown by a score of 33-27.

          Manila Monstars and Humongous Monstars certainly earned their right to the title game.  Both fought hard and left it all on the table.  The game looked to be a blowout early, but turned into a second half thriller and an instant classic.  After overcoming a steep deficit, Humongous Melonheads were unable to hold on to their lead.  The two teams exchanged blows, but Manila Monstars would leave with the title.  Both teams put forth an impressive effort, culminating from their incredible late season and postseason runs.  Congratulations to both teams for such great seasons and ending it such an exciting fashion.  We’d like to also extend an extra congratulations to the champs, Manila Monstars.