The first of the two German Football League semifinals will take place on Saturday, as the Schwäbisch Hall Unicorns (1) are set to host the Dresden Monarchs (2).
The Unicorns kicked off their postseason with a 17-7 win over the Berlin Rebels. Although the victory was a relatively comfortable one, keeping the Rebels off the scoreboard until the closing minutes, it was a far from perfect game from the reigning champions.
Offensively, the Unicorns were subpar, finding the endzone just once and waiting until the second half to do so. Their other touchdown came early in the game by way of Deshaun Paper pick-six. Ian Gehrke went 13-20 with two interceptions, totaling just 142 yards through the air, while Mike Gentilli yet again did the majority of the heavy lifting, carrying the ball 23 times for 83 yards.
Watch live PPV. Dresden Monarchs @ Schwäbisch Hall Unicorns, Sept. 30, 16:00 CET (4 pm, 10 am EDT)
Where they excelled, and where they have exceeded all year, is on the other side of the ball. They rank first in fumbles recovered, defensive interceptions, defensive touchdowns and sacks while allowing just shy of 20 points per game, placing them third in the league.
The Monarchs are playing on the back of a huge win, outscoring the Saarland Hurricanes 45-38. As always, their Steven Duncan led offense was near-flawless, putting up 480 yards and 45 points. The likes of Joe Cassidy and Hugo Dyrendahl kept the Monarchs’ defense ahead, with both players securing seven tackles apiece, they left a lot to desire as a unit in the second half. After going 31-16 up in the first half, Dresden allowed the game to turn into a shootout, keeping the Hurricanes in the game until the closing minutes.
Saturday will see the premiere offense in the GFL take on one of the top defensive units in the league as both sides battle for a chance at the 2023 German Bowl.