Outnumbered but victorious

By Vatapuia Maiava 10 February 2016, 12:00AM

There might have been more Panthers supporters at the U.S. Embassy residence on Monday evening but it was the Broncos fans who made the most noises when Peyton Manning hoisted the Vince Lombardi trophy.

The Denver Broncos defeated the Carolina Panthers in the Super Bowl 50, breaking the hearts of Panthers fans all over the world – including at the Vailima gathering.

At the residence of Angelina Wilkinson, the Chargé d’Affaires of the US Embassy in Apia, a group had gathered for the big game.

“We have Americans, Canadians, Australians, New Zealanders and Samoans of different organizations all here watching and enjoying the Super Bowl,” said Ms. Wilkinson.

Of the crowd, 13 supported the Panthers while seven cheered on the Broncos.

 “I support the Carolina Panthers because there are a lot of Ohio state players in that team,” said Ms. Wilkinson. “I went to University in Ohio.”

Benjamin Harding was undecided.

“I want to see Peyton Manning have a good game but I would also like the Panthers to win this one.”

But one man in particular got it right.

Dennis Wellborn, the General Manager of National Pacific Insurance Limited, hedged his bet on the Broncos.

 “I’m going for the Denver Broncos because they are the better team,” he said. “I want to see Peyton Manning go with a win.”

And a win it was. Manning played a starring role in the 24 – 10 win over the Panthers. With that, millions of Broncos fans celebrated around the world – including the seven at Vailima.

By Vatapuia Maiava 10 February 2016, 12:00AM
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