I think he may indeed have lowered the nose when the power faded, to keep the aeroplane flying and reach the field (I think the captain may also have removed the 'drag flap' as well?), then pitched the aeroplane up at the last minute, very close to the ground to dissipate as much energy as possible, resulting in a high-ish rate of descent at minimum forward speed for the last few feet?
Seems like a job well done to me.
