LAKE CHARLES, LA -- It was opening night for the Professional Indoor Football Champion, Albany Panthers, and nothing has changed in the PIFL hierarchy.
The back-to-back champs, returning with a core of veteran players, avoided the words repeat and defend in regards to the 2013 season. They claimed to be back to earn a fresh, new championship.
That goal can’t be accomplished until late June, but the Panthers did accomplish the opening task of a 1-0 record on Saturday.
On the road, the Panthers stormed past the Louisiana Swashbucklers 51-40 in their season opener.
Albany used five touchdown passes from quarterback Cecil Lester and two touchdown runs from Derrick Wimbush for the offensive production. Defensive back Demetrie McCray returned a Louisiana two point attempt to close out the Panthers scoring.
The Panthers open Phoebe Field next Saturday against the Columbus Lions.