Firebirds Take Down Liberty in Thrilling Overtime Victory

Firebirds Take Down Liberty in Thrilling Overtime Victory

Albany, NY – May 6, 2025 — The Albany Firebirds continued their undefeated season in an unforgettable matchup against the Salina Liberty, securing a dramatic overtime win in what many will argue was the best AF1 game of the season. The game went to sudden death overtime—the first of the season for the league—and the Firebirds emerged victorious, 64-58.

Offensive Explosion in the First Half

The Firebirds entered the game with an undefeated record, but the Salina Liberty, riding a two-game win streak, proved they were more than up for the challenge. The game began with fireworks as both teams traded touchdowns on nearly every possession, setting the stage for an epic battle.

Albany struck first, but Salina answered quickly with a touchdown of their own after a huge return deep into Albany territory. The first quarter ended with the Firebirds leading 21-20, thanks to a missed extra point by the Liberty.

The second quarter was equally explosive. Albany added 23 points, while Salina responded with 21, bringing the halftime score to 44-41, a score nearly identical to the last time these two teams met in 2024.

Tight Second Half – The Liberty Fight Back

As the second half began, the Firebirds’ defense tightened up, but the Liberty were relentless, keeping the game close and even tying the score at 44-44 early in the third quarter. The Firebirds only managed one touchdown in the third, taking a 51-44 lead into the final frame.

The fourth quarter saw the intensity ramp up even further, with the Liberty matching the Firebirds every step of the way. After Albany went up 58-51, Salina answered to tie it up again at 58-58. With just seconds remaining, the Liberty had a chance to win the game with a touchdown, but a penalty erased their would-be game-winning score.

With the clock expiring, the game was sent to overtime—marking the first overtime period of the season for the AF1.

Overtime Drama – Firebirds Win It in Sudden Death

In overtime, the Liberty won the coin toss and elected to receive first. However, the Firebirds’ defense stepped up when it mattered most, forcing a three-and-out and putting the Liberty on their heels deep in their own territory.

Salina failed to convert on 4th-and-2, and the Firebirds took over. Sam Castronova, who had been brilliant all game, threw a game-winning touchdown pass to Isaiah Scott, sealing the victory and keeping the Firebirds undefeated.

Record-Breaking Offensive Performances

This game was an offensive showcase, with both quarterbacks lighting up the scoreboard. Sam Castronova finished with 330 yards and nine touchdown passes, completing 21 of 30 attempts. On the other side, Rakeem Cato threw for 308 yards, seven touchdowns, and added a rushing touchdown.

The receiving corps had huge games as well. Duane Brown caught nine passes for 132 yards and five touchdowns, while Isaiah Scott hauled in seven receptions for 156 yards and four touchdowns. On the Liberty’s side, Malik Honeycutt had an impressive 11 catches for 157 yards and five touchdowns.

Don’t Miss a Moment – Rewatch the Thriller!

This is one game fans will be talking about for a long time. If you missed the excitement, don't worry—you can re-watch the full game on Evergreen Now TV and catch all the heart-pounding action.

The Firebirds will be back in action next Saturday, May 10th, when they take on the Nashville Kats at MVP Arena. The undefeated Firebirds are ready to keep the momentum going—be sure to get your tickets at firebirdsaf1.com/tickets.