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Firecats back on winning track

2 min read

It’s generally accepted that the difference between good and great teams in professional sports is the small things. Two things up for debate about a team being good or great are team depth and overcoming tough losses.

The Florida Firecats exhibited both of these qualities in Saturday night’s 48-33 victory over the South Georgia Wildcats, at Germain Arena.

Welcoming them back to Germain Arena for the first time since last year’s playoff loss to the Wildcats, the Firecats were coming off their first loss of the season and were without the services of their top receiver Chris McKinney. The only thing that mattered was the Firecats (7-1) rolled over the Wildcats (5-4).

“It was obviously a big win for us,” Firecats coach Kevin Bouis said. “Our guys played their hearts out.”

Most impressive was the play of James Panui, McKinney’s substitute. The team’s league mandated international player caught 12 passes for 117 yards and two touchdowns.

“We always knew he was good, but we were deep at receiver and he didn’t get the chance to start,” said quarterback Chris Wallace. “I talked to him early in the year and told him to not get frustrated. That, when the time comes you have to answer the bell and he did.”

Panui answered the bell in a big way. He did it all, whether it was a 28-yard touchdown catch or an eight-yard hitch route for a first down, Panui could be counted on to make it happen.

“I felt good,” said Panui. “I felt like I could come in and produce. I feel that all six receivers we have, we are the best in the league and any of us could play anywhere, but I know my role and I know my time is limited, but I’ll make the most of it while I have it.”

By limited Panui means as long as McKinney, or another receiver, are hurt, he will get to play.

The Firecats remain at home for their next game Saturday night against the expansion Daytona Beach ThunderBirds.