The event is part of a four-game stand alone series which pits Austria’s Swarco Raiders against four teams from Germany (Dusseldorf Panther, Stuttgart Scorpions) , Great Britain (London Warriors) and Switzerland (Basel Gladiators).
The Raiders have won the two first games beating the Scorpions in the opener 34-9 and Dusseldorf 42-0.
The Gladiators, defending Swiss champions, have struggled in the Swiss league this season a couple of times. They lost quarterback Jerry Slota early in the 45-10 loss to the Calanda Broncos two weeks ago to injury but now have replaced him with John Manoogian from the USC Trojans. The 6′ 220 lb Manoogian (#14) will start against the Raiders. Linebacker Jonathon Talbot (#40) anchors the Gladiators defense while speedy wide receiver Rene Fink (#1) can stretch a defense.
Swarco, on the other hand have experienced Sean Shelton (#12) at quarterback (35 of 56 passes for 400 yards, 4 touchdowns in two games this year). Running back David Oku (#25) is always dangerous and defensive back Talib Wise (#4) can play corner or safety.