The Fight for the Second Round… At W.C. Majors Field on Friday, Nov. 17, the Fairhope Pirates and Central Phenix Red Devils fought fiercely in the second round of the playoffs. This thrilling matchup determined who advanced on the road to the semifinals. (Shep Pappas)
The Fight for the Second Round… At W.C. Majors Field on Friday, Nov. 17, the Fairhope Pirates and Central Phenix Red Devils fought fiercely in the second round of the playoffs. This thrilling matchup determined who advanced on the road to the semifinals. (Shep Pappas)
Shep Pappas
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Fairhope falls in hard-fought playoff game to Central Phenix

Byline photo of Shep Pappas
Shep Pappas, sports writer
November 17, 2025
Seniors Call It… The Fairhope Pirates senior captains meet at midfield for the coin toss. With the second round of the playoffs on the line, these leaders carried the hopes of their teams into a crucial night of competition. (Shep Pappas)
First Play Trickery… Fairhope runs a trick play to start the game. The play threw the defense off and let Fairhope get a big gain. (Shep Pappas) 
To The House… Senior Bryon Martin, wide receiver runs 57 yards to the end zone following a pass reception. The touchdown gave Fairhope a lead over Central Phenix to start the game. (Shep Pappas) 
Juked… Martin shakes a Central Phenix defender and cuts upfield! The impressive juke led to a huge gain for the Pirates. (Shep Pappas) 
Defense!… The Pirate defense causes the Central Phenix receiver to drop the pass. The successful defensive disruption prevented a completion. (Shep Pappas) 
Midfield Reset… Senior Grant Thompson lines up the ball! The Pirates prepare for the second-half kickoff against Central Phenix, looking to seize control of the moment. (Shep Pappas) 
Locks… With time winding down Dylan Gilbert makes a defensive effort against the Central Phenix offense. The Fairhope defender slowed down the play, forcing the Central team into a tough spot. (Shep Pappas) 
Last chance… Senior Colton Allen lines up at receiver as a last ditch effort at getting a touchdown with the clock nearing expiration. “I can’t believe it’s over, I love this team,” Allen said. (Shep Pappas) 
Final Wistle… Emotions run high as the Pirates kneel together on the field following their second-round playoff loss. Some cried tears of joy, others cried tears of sadness over the fact the season is over. “I’m gonna miss these seniors,” said Bryce Wells, sophomore. (Shep Pappas)
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