LIVESTREAM CEFL: Schwäbisch Hall Unicorns @ Swarco Raiders, June 26, 15:00 CET (3 pm, 09:00 am ET)
The Swarco Raiders (7-1) will host the Schwäbisch Hall Unicorns (3-0) in the Central European Football League Bowl XV. Fans have been anticipating this matchup as it pits arguably the two best teams on the continent against each other. The Unicorns advanced to the CEFL championship after beating the Swiss champion Calanda Broncos, while the Raiders defeated their rivals the Dacia Vienna Vikings and the Italian champions Milano Seamen to host the big game. Expect the Raiders to play well as they look to defend their CEFL title in Innsbruck against the record-breaking German powerhouse Unicorns.
The last time these teams met the Raiders dominated the Unicorns 35-0, and were subsequently named 2016 Eurobowl XXX champs. Fans can expect a much more competitive game today as these two talented teams appear to be very evenly matched.
Schwäbisch Hall Unicorns @ Swarco Raiders, June 26, 15:00 CET (3 pm, 09:00 am ET)
Twenty six year old German quarterback Alex Haupert leads the Unicorns offense into Innsbruck. The home grown passer has a plethora of weapons at his disposal as former NFL tight end Mortiz Böhringer adds a new wrinkle to this offense. At receiver, veteran Tyler Rutenbeck and young Austrian Yannick Mayr are eager to make an impact on this big stage. In the backfield, the Unicorns will rely on a one-two punch of Sebastian Giel and Jannies Fiedler for their rushing attack.
Defensively, Schwäbisch Hall’s secondary has played very well to start the season. Veteran defensive back Cody Pastorino has been one of Germany’s premiere safeties for years. Pastorino and cornerback Junior Nkembi will look to contain an explosive Swarco passing game that loves the long ball. At the line of scrimmage Daniel Bartmann and Simon Butsch will have to step up and provide a pass rush to pressure Raider’s savvy quarterback Sean Shelton. Schwäbisch Hall’s Head coach Jordan Neuman commented on the Unicorns mindset entering the CEFL Bowl:
“Games like this is exactly why we joined the CEFL, because it gives us the opportunity to compete at the highest-level Europe has to offer.”
The home team Raiders defense enters this game with a daunting task of facing a talented group of Unicorn playmakers. Raiders defensive backs, Vincent Müller, Tim Unger, and Davion Washington look to pick off the German quarterback as turnovers could be the difference in this evenly matched game. Linebackers Ruben Seeber and Alex Ferrari will aim to match the Unicorns physicality and contain their ground game. Defensive lineman Christian Schaar’s focus will be on pressuring Schwäbisch Hall’s passer as he’s totalled three sacks so far this season.
The home team’s offense is led by veteran quarterback Sean Shelton. Shelton’s sneaky athleticism and big arm can create explosive plays for this group. Import Davion Washington adds speed and good hands, as the do it all athlete is a threat as a receiver, kick returner, and defensive back. However, the Raiders most dangerous weapon is 5’9 receiver Marco Schneider. Despite his small stature, the stocky slot receiver’s sure hands and agility make him a mismatch in any league. Fans can expect Shelton to look to Schneider often in today’s game as the two have hooked up in the clutch all season. Raiders head coach Kevin Herron on the Raiders defending their CEFL title.
“We are very happy to be the situation to defend our title for the third time. To make it to the CEFL Bowl is always one of our top goals.”
The matchup fans have dreamed of is finally happening in this years CEFL Bowl. Two of the best teams in recent history finally meeting with an international championship on the line. Look for the Unicorns to represent German football well on the road against the current Austrian and CEFL champions. Tivoli Stadium will have 3000 rowdy fans in attendance ready to cheer on their beloved Raiders creating a outstanding championship game atmosphere.
Watch the game live here. Schwäbisch Hall Unicorns @ Swarco Raiders, June 26, 15:00 CET (3 pm, 09:00 am ET)
Swarco Raiders roster
Schwäbisch Hall Unicorns roster
