The Vestavia Hills flag football team secured a spot in the Alabama High School Athletic Association state championship game after a thrilling 20-19 victory over Spain Park. The decisive moment came when quarterback Julia Rose connected with her teammate Alexis Rubin for an 8-yard touchdown with just under five minutes remaining in the match at Buddy Anderson Field. A successful extra point, following a penalty on Spain Park for offensive pass interference, completed the Rebels’ comeback from a 13-0 deficit.
Rebels Overcome Early Deficit
With this win, the Rebels advance to the championship game on December 3, 2023, facing off against the two-time defending champions, Central-Phenix City. Vestavia Hills enters the match riding a remarkable 27-game winning streak, while Central-Phenix City has not lost in 56 consecutive games.
“I can’t say enough about Julia Rose,” said Vestavia head coach Daniel Davis. “She willed us to the win. She was not going to be denied.” Rose’s performance included 288 passing yards and three touchdown passes, extending her state record for passing yards to 6,617 and her touchdown total to 121. Despite facing a relentless Spain Park defense, Rose completed 18 of 40 passes.
Spain Park initially took control of the game with a strong defensive strategy. The Jaguars’ defensive front, led by freshman Libby Gray and senior Josie Gray, pressured Rose into mistakes. Spain Park’s Rory Payton intercepted a pass from Rose and returned it 44 yards for a touchdown, giving the Jaguars an early lead.
Clutch Performances Define the Game
Spain Park extended its lead to 13-0 when quarterback Jenna Kate Hutchison connected with Abby Whatley for a 10-yard scoring pass. The Rebels rallied just before halftime, with Rose finding Molly Mac Sharp for a 15-yard touchdown, reducing the deficit to 13-6.
In the second half, Rose continued her push, completing another touchdown pass to Sharp, tying the game at 13. Spain Park regained the lead when Hutchison threw a touchdown pass to Whatley, making it 19-13 with just over two minutes left in the third quarter. Hutchison finished the game with 186 passing yards on 22 completions.
In the final moments, the Rebels executed a strategic play that culminated in Rose’s pass to Rubin, which not only tied the game but also set up the pivotal extra point. With the victory, Vestavia Hills solidified its status as a formidable contender for the state title.
The upcoming championship against Central-Phenix City is highly anticipated, with both teams demonstrating exceptional skill and resilience throughout the season. The Rebels are determined to secure their first title, while Central-Phenix City aims to extend its dominance in Alabama flag football.
