Neshaminy High School’s football team advanced to the semifinals of the District 1 Class 6A playoffs after defeating Owen J. Roberts 49-21 on November 7, 2025. This victory marked Neshaminy’s first appearance in the semifinals since 2015 and showcased their ability to rebound from an early deficit.
The game, held at Harry E. Franks Stadium in Langhorne, Pennsylvania, started with Owen J. Roberts taking a surprising lead. The Wildcats, who finished the season with an 8-4 record, scored first with a 1-yard touchdown run by quarterback Christopher Flynn, following a 69-yard drive. They extended their lead to 21-7 with two touchdown passes from Flynn to wide receiver Matthew Gregory, one of which was a striking 75-yard connection.
Neshaminy, however, quickly responded to the challenge. The Redskins, now boasting a record of 9-3, initiated their comeback with a 42-yard touchdown run by running back Carter Clee, igniting the home crowd. As the first half progressed, Neshaminy narrowed the gap before halftime with a touchdown pass from quarterback Michael Eckart to wide receiver Mike Sassano, followed by another touchdown from Clee, making the score 21-21.
The momentum shifted decisively in the second half. Neshaminy opened the third quarter with a 49-yard touchdown pass from Eckart to Sassano, taking the lead for the first time in the game. Shortly thereafter, Owen J. Roberts fumbled during a crucial drive, handing the Redskins an opportunity to extend their lead. Eckart capitalized on this mistake, scoring a 17-yard touchdown run to put Neshaminy ahead 35-21.
Clee continued to dominate the field, scoring a total of four touchdowns—three rushing and one receiving. He finished the game with 142 yards on 12 carries, which elevated his season total to ten touchdowns. Eckart also had a standout performance, throwing three touchdown passes and rushing for 102 yards on 14 carries, bringing his season total to 30 touchdown passes.
As the game came to a close, Neshaminy’s defense, which had struggled early on, tightened its grip. After allowing three first-half touchdowns, the defense turned the tide, limiting Owen J. Roberts to no points in the second half. Flynn ended the game with 162 passing yards but could not maintain his early success against a rejuvenated Neshaminy defense.
Clee reflected on the team’s performance, stating, “It’s definitely revenge. It feels great to get this win.” He praised the offensive line, emphasizing their crucial role in his success on the field. Eckart echoed this sentiment, noting the team’s resilience in overcoming the early deficit. “We didn’t expect to be down 14 again this week, but we keep fighting back and believe in each other,” he said.
Looking ahead, Neshaminy will face North Penn in the semifinals, a team they narrowly defeated in the regular season, 18-14. Clee expressed eagerness for the rematch, highlighting the competitive spirit between the teams.
As the playoffs progress, both teams prepare to face the challenges ahead, with Neshaminy looking to capitalize on their momentum and North Penn eager to claim victory in a highly anticipated rematch.