Łódz Wilki defeat Ząbki Dukes in exciting Polish Football League matchup
The undefeated Łódz Wilki (3-0) solidified their strong start to the Polish Football League season with a 40-18 victory over the struggling Ząbki Dukes (0-3) in a game that showcased explosive offense and a pivotal second-half surge at ChKS Stadium.
High-Octane First Half Sets Tone
The opening quarters delivered a rapid-fire exchange, with both teams trading touchdowns. Wilki’s Mikołaj Pawlaczyk struck first on a 6-yard rush, but the Dukes responded immediately via Trevon Wilkenson’s 1-yard plunge. Pawlaczyk dominated the second quarter, adding two more touchdowns to give Łódź a 20-12 halftime lead. Ząbki stayed within striking distance thanks to a 75-yard aerial strike from Igor Bednarczuk, keeping the contest fiercely competitive.
Photo: Amelia Ścieglińska Fotografia
Third-Quarter Turnaround Secures Control
Ząbki’s hopes surged early in the third quarter when Manuel Munoz Sosa returned an interception 45 yards for a touchdown, narrowing the gap to 20-18. However, the Wolves quickly silenced the rally. Antonius Hurd’s electrifying kickoff return touchdown ignited a 20-point onslaught, fueled by Damian Podczaski and Przemysław Grzelak’s punishing ground game. The Wilki defense tightened, stifling Ząbki’s momentum and denying further scoring opportunities.
Wolves Lock Down Victory
Łódź shifted to a conservative approach in the fourth quarter, grinding clock with their rushing attack while their defense clamped down. The Dukes, unable to penetrate the red zone, watched the Wilki lead balloon to 22 points, sealing their third straight loss.
Photo: Amelia Ścieglińska Fotografia
Coaches’ Reactions
Ząbki’s Phillip Dillon praised his team’s growth: “We’re building something special with young players. Critical mistakes cost us, but the progress is clear.”
Łódz’s defensive star Michał Stolarczyk acknowledged uneven play: “Our second-half adjustments proved decisive. We’ll keep refining to compete with the league’s best.”
The Wilki aim to extend their streak next week, while the Dukes regroup for their hunt for a maiden win.
