MANHATTAN, Kan. (Catch it Kansas) - The Manhattan Indians defeat the Derby Panthers 28-23 to continue their perfect season and advance to the 6A state championship game. Manhattan scored 21 unanswered points in the second half to overcome a nine-point deficit at halftime.

Entering Friday’s game, the Panthers were down starting quarterback Brock Zerger due to a season-ending leg injury. On Friday night, the Panthers lost second string quarterback Braxton Clark in the second half due to a hip injury. The Indians defense shut down the limited Panthers offense, only holding them to seven points.

Despite the adversity, Derby fought all the way until the end.

“When Braxton went down it was kind of like scramble mode right there,” Braxton Clark, Panthers Head Coach said. “We put in three other quarterbacks, we finished with Dylan running wildcat.”

Despite falling short of the team’s goal of a state title in 6A, Clark is proud of his team.

“These guys have a lot to hang their head high for,” Clark said. “This year was so enjoyable with these kids.”

Derby ends their season with a 9-3 record.

Manhattan will face Gardner Edgerton in the 6A state championship game at Emporia State on Nov. 26 at 1 p.m.

Derby falls just short of 8th straight title game

Panthers fall 28-23 to Manhattan