Italy: Ancona Dolphins edge Parma Panthers in thrilling showdown

In a nail-biting finish reminiscent of their 2023 clash, the Ancona Dolphins (4-1) defeated the reigning Italian Football League (IFL) champion Parma Panthers (3-2) 24-21 on a walk-off field goal by kicker Matteo Dazzani.

With nine seconds remaining, quarterback Blake Eaton moved the Dolphins to the Panthers’ 8-yard line, setting the stage for Dazzani’s 25-yard kick that sent the “Nelson Mandela” stadium into euphoria. The victory solidified Ancona’s second-place standing in Group A, setting up a pivotal showdown with the conference leaders, the Legnano Frogs, on April 12.

First Half: Defensive Grind and Momentum Swings
Parma struck first, capitalizing on a sluggish Dolphins defense. Quarterback Robbie Patterson connected with receiver Marian Cebotaru for an early touchdown, followed by a successful conversion (7-0). Ancona’s offense sputtered initially, but their defense—anchored by linebacker Karim Giardinieri and captain Raffaele Rotelli—stiffened, shutting down Parma’s ground game. Midway through the second quarter, wideout Matteo Dazzani hauled in a touchdown pass from Blake Eaton, with kicker Cristiano Brancaccio leveling the score at 7-7.

Ancona seized the momentum when Eaton launched a 35-yard bomb to Fred Orlandini, whose acrobatic catch over Parma’s secondary set up another touchdown. Brancaccio’s conversion made it 14-7. Parma threatened before halftime, but a forced fumble by Ancona’s defensive line preserved the lead.

Second Half: Drama and Controversy
Parma’s no-huddle offense found rhythm early in the second half, with Italian-American hybrid player Dominic Fiscelli scoring on a post-corner route (14-13). A botched two-point conversion attempt initially kept Ancona ahead, but a controversial officiating decision—a retroactive penalty—gave Parma a second chance. Kicker Matteo Felli capitalized, tying the game at 14-14.

The Dolphins’ response was immediate. as defensive back Raffaele Rotelli intercepted Patterson, returning the ball to set up Eaton’s touchdown pass to Ennio Iudicone (21-14). Yet Parma clawed back with Fiscelli’s touchdown run (21-21) with 2:10 remaining.

Final Drive: Eaton’s Redemption and Dazzani’s Heroics
Eaton, who suffered earlier with erratic play, redeemed himself with a poised final drive. A risky QB run nearly backfired when Parma’s Jayleen Parnell forced a fumble, but receiver Fred Orlandini—playing through injury—pounced on the loose ball. With 30 seconds left, Eaton maneuvered Ancona into field-goal range, setting up Dazzani’s successful kick.

Standout Performances

• Blake Eaton (QB, Dolphins): Shook off early struggles to deliver clutch throws and critical scrambles, aided by an offensive line that allowed zero sacks.
• Fred Orlandini (WR, Dolphins): Made game-saving plays, including the fumble recovery and a 35-yard reception.
• Raffaele Rotelli (LB, Dolphins): Dominated with an interception, tackles for loss, and leadership in containing Parma’s ground attack.
• Dominic Fiscelli (Panthers): Scored twice and tormented Ancona’s defense with his versatility.

Looking Ahead
The Dolphins’ defense—ranked among the league’s best—will face their toughest test against Legnano’s high-powered offense next week. For Parma, offensive consistency remains a concern, particularly in red-zone efficiency.

This clash underscored Ancona’s championship pedigree. As the Dolphins’ fans chanted, “Forza Dorici!” post-game, the IFL’s Group A race promises more fireworks.

Source: FIDAF