Eagles soar over Patriots
CLAIM FIRST SUPER BOWL ON LATE BRADY FUMBLE
MINNEAPOLIS – The Philadelphia Eagles stunned the New England Patriots with an upset 41-33 victory to claim their first Super Bowl on Sunday after a late Tom Brady fumble ended the veteran quarterback’s tilt at history.
Eagles quarterback Nick Foles – who started the season as a back-up and had considered retiring from the NFL two years ago – was named MVP after a magnificent performance that saw him throw for three touchdowns and 373 yards.
Foles’ fairytale starring role laid the foundation for a victory which sparked jubilation in Philadelphia as thousands of fans took to the streets to celebrate.
“I am speechless,” said Foles, who was named MVP. “To be part of this organisation, to be in this moment is something you dream about as a kid. We have been wanting this for a long time, and I am just blessed to be a part of it.”
Cannons shooting confetti in the green and silver colours of the Eagles exploded all over Minneapolis’ US Bank Stadium.
Philadelphia’s unofficial anthem – the theme from the Sylvester Stallone “Rocky” movies – belted out to the delight of fans celebrating an ending worthy of the Hollywood franchise.
The Eagles had been heavy underdogs heading into Sunday’s NFL showpiece, with the pre-game narrative focusing on the 40-year-old Brady, who was chasing a record sixth title.
But although Brady produced a record-breaking performance – throwing for 505 yards and three touchdowns – it was his fumble from a strip sack with just over two minutes left that is destined to be remembered.
Foles had given the Eagles a 38-33 lead shortly beforehand after finding Zach Ertz in the end zone.