The Thonon Black Panthers, who are unbeaten in French league play so far this year, visit Innsbruck, Austria to face the undefeated and defending CEFL and Austrian champions, the Swarco Raiders, in opening round action of the Central European Football League, Saturday, April 13.
These two teams have never faced each other before in international action.
The Raiders have looked formidable so far in the Austrian Football League season. They opened the year with three wins, including a 48-28 victory over arch rivals, the Dacia Vienna Vikings. Quarterback Sean Shelton has thrown for 535 yards and nine touchdowns while rushing for another 149 yards and two touchdowns. He has a lot of weapons at his disposal including Sandro Platzgummer who has rushed for 166 yards and is a touchdown waiting to happen whenever he is on the field. Shelton’s top receiver is Patrick Donahue who has 166 yards in receptions and a pair of touchdowns. He is just as dangerous returning kicks.
The Swarco defensive backfield has been reinforced is anchored by former Clemson Tiger defensive back Darius Robinson.
Thonon lead the French league with a 6-0 record and have outscored opponents 238-35. Quarterback Clark Evans leads the league in rushing with 526 yards. His arsenal includes running back Kasper Wedberg along with receivers Jefferson Alexandre and Damien Di Cursi.
The Black Panthers will be facing a Swarco Raiders team that has not lost a home game since April 13, 2013! This will be a daunting task for the French 2018 finalists.
