Northwest Vipers Fall to South Dublin Panthers in Season Opener
The Vipers lost their season opener to the South Dublin Panthers by a score of 0-19.
Match Snapshot
| Date | Sunday, March 1st, 2026 |
| Gameweek | AFI Senior Kitted Division One – Week 1 |
| Opponent | South Dublin Panthers |
| Venue | Prehen Playing Fields |
| Final Score | Panthers 19 – 0 Vipers |
| Season Record | 0–1 |
Opening Overview
The Northwest Vipers opened their 2026 AFI Division One campaign at Prehen Playing Fields, hosting the recently relegated South Dublin Panthers in the season opener. With anticipation building around the start of the new campaign, the Vipers were eager to begin the year strongly in front of their home supporters.
After losing the coin toss, the Panthers elected to defer, giving the Vipers the first offensive drive of the afternoon. However, a disciplined Panthers defence quickly forced a three-and-out to set the tone for a physical contest between the two sides.
Early turnovers proved costly for the Vipers as the Panthers capitalised on opportunities in the first half to establish a lead. Despite the deficit, the Vipers defence would respond well after halftime and held the visitors scoreless for the remainder of the game.
First Half Summary
The opening quarter saw both teams testing each other defensively. After an early Panthers punt, the Vipers looked to gain momentum before a fumble deep in their own territory was recovered by the visitors.
The Panthers capitalised on the short field, finishing the drive with a rushing touchdown to take a 6–0 lead. The visitors extended their advantage later in the quarter when another turnover allowed them to add a passing touchdown and extra point to make it 13–0.
Despite the setbacks, the Vipers offence continued to battle. Alan Lee Creswell provided energy in the running game with several determined carries, including an 11-yard rush in the first quarter, while quarterback Mike Naulty connected with Lorcan McCartney for a six-yard completion during the second quarter.
Before halftime, the Panthers added another rushing touchdown to extend the lead to 19–0 heading into the break.
Second Half Summary
The Vipers defence delivered a strong response after halftime, tightening their discipline and preventing the Panthers from adding further points.
Linebacker Josh Reed provided a key moment in the third quarter with an interception that briefly shifted momentum in favour of the home side. Reed was heavily involved throughout the contest and led the defensive effort.
The secondary also contributed several important pass breakups, with Cathal O’Kane, Finn Craig, Evan O’Kane, and Darren Quinn disrupting the Panthers passing game.
Late in the fourth quarter, Dylan Coyle added to the defensive effort with a quarterback sack and tackle for loss.
The Vipers offence showed its best momentum on the final drive of the game, when quarterback Mike Naulty connected with Jack Colhoun on a series of receptions, including a long gain that moved the Vipers deep into Panthers territory.
Key Performers
Jack Colhoun was named Offensive MVP following his key receptions on the Vipers’ final drive.
Defensively, Josh Reed earned Defensive MVP honours after recording nine tackles, a tackle for loss, and an interception.
On special teams, Cathal O’Kane was named Special Teams MVP, highlighted by an impressive 30-yard punt return.
MVP awards for the 2026 season are proudly supported by The Branch Bar and Grill, Campbell’s Bar, The Old Dock’s and Georges Bar.
Looking Ahead
The Vipers now turn their attention to their next challenge as they travel to Newforge Sports Complex in Belfast on March 22nd to face the Antrim Stags as they look to bounce back and secure their first win of the 2026 campaign.
