Northwest Vipers Fall to South Dublin Panthers in 2026 Harp Bowl Championship

Match Snapshot

Opening Overview

The Northwest Vipers' memorable 2026 season came to an end at Dubarry Park, Athlone, as they fell 60–6 to the South Dublin Panthers in the 2026 Harp Bowl Championship.

While the result wasn't the one the Vipers had worked so hard for, it shouldn't overshadow a remarkable campaign that saw the club finish 8–2, secure the #2 seed in Division One, earn a home semi-final, and book their place in the Harp Bowl after a dramatic playoff victory over the West Dublin Rhinos. Reaching the championship game marked another major milestone in the club's continued growth and capped off one of the most successful seasons in Northwest Vipers history.

First Half Summary

The Panthers started the championship game strongly, executing on both sides of the ball from the opening drive. Their balanced offensive attack caused problems through both the passing and running game, while their defence capitalised on opportunities to add points of their own.

The Vipers battled throughout the opening half but found it difficult to establish the offensive rhythm that had carried them through the regular season and playoffs. Every yard was hard-earned as the Panthers maintained control of field position and built a commanding lead heading into halftime.

Despite the scoreboard, the Vipers continued to compete and looked for opportunities to swing momentum back in their favour against one of the strongest teams in Irish American football.

Second Half Summary

The Vipers refused to let their heads drop after the break and continued to compete until the final whistle.

The Panthers maintained their high level of execution, adding further scores through both the air and on the ground while also producing another defensive score.

Despite the pressure, the Vipers defence continued to battle. Niall Lyons came up with one of the defensive highlights of the afternoon, making a well-read interception to halt a Panthers drive and demonstrate the determination that had defined the Vipers all season.

Although the result was beyond reach, the Vipers continued to fight until the very last snap. On the final play of the game, Mike Naulty connected with Ishy Ahmad for a touchdown, ensuring the Vipers finished their season with a positive moment and rewarding the travelling supporters who backed the team throughout the afternoon.

Looking Back

While the Harp Bowl did not end with the result the Northwest Vipers had hoped for, one game does not define what has been an exceptional season.

The Vipers finished the year with an 8–2 record, secured the #2 seed in AFI Division One, earned the right to host a home playoff game, defeated the West Dublin Rhinos to reach the Harp Bowl Championship, and continued to establish themselves among the top teams in Irish American football.

The club would like to thank every player, coach, committee member, volunteer, sponsor and supporter who played their part throughout the 2026 season. Your commitment and belief have helped make this one of the most memorable campaigns in club history.

The result in Athlone may not have been the ending the Vipers dreamed of, but the foundation has been laid for the future. The work continues, and the Northwest Vipers will be back.

Unleash the Venom.