The Danube Dragons (0-0) will host the Swarco Raiders (1-0) in the first game of the 2024 Austrian Football League season for the reigning title holders.
The Raiders won their opening game last weekend defeating the Mödling Rangers 45-2.
The Dragons will be led by Austrian Bowl winning quarterback Alex Thury. In nine regular season games in 2023, Thury threw for 1,329 yards and 19 touchdowns. The Austrian Bowl brought out the best in the Team Austria quarterback as he tossed the game winner with 10 seconds left on the clock. Thury is a savvy veteran and will give the revamped Raiders problems.
Swarco enters the game with Kason Martin (Eastern New Mexico) behind center. In the lopsided win over the Rangers last week, he threw for 206 yards and five touchdowns. Running back Tim Tonko rushed for 122 yards and a score to lead all rushers.
Although Danube dominated the Raiders in 2023, this is a much different Swarco team this year. This game could be a test for the home team.