Football is back in Wroclaw, Poland this Saturday as the undefeated Panthers will host the winless Warsaw Mets. The Mets are looking to get some momentum going in this shortened season. They have been improving week to week but so far have fallen just short of getting a win. On the other hand the Wroclaw Panthers are undefeated and have some of the most talented players in Poland suiting up for them.
The Panthers are going into this game after beating the Dresden Monarchs in Germany 48-14. Even though the Monarchs didn’t have the same talent on the field as years prior, this was a huge win for the Panthers. They were able to show that they have a fantastic squad that could compete with any team in Europe right now. Offensively the Panthers have been excellent behind the play of their Polish national team quarterback Bartosz Dziedzic and running back Ryan Tuiosoa. Tuiosoa ran for 168 yards and 4 touchdowns in this game. Together with the rest of the Wroclaw offense they have been averaging just over 50 points per game this season.
Warsaw Mets @ Wroclaw Panthers, Oct. 3, 14:00 CET (08:00 ET)
Defensively the Panthers have been able to shut down opposing offenses allowing only 21 points so far this season through three games. An enormous part of this defensive domination is because of German import defender Thiadric Hansen. Hansen has been a force off the edge for the Panthers, tackling ball carriers, sacking passers, and making offensive tackles look silly. Hansen on their defensive success this season.
“What definitely leads to our success is our depth at the roster from polish guys. We have a lot of polish talent on here. We are good at every position. Good safeties, good cornerbacks, good linebackers, and a good defensive line. And also they are national team guys. Their backups are great, we can rotate a lot and give our guys a break and keep us fresh.”
The visiting Warsaw Mets are looking to come into Wroclaw and pull off a shocking upset. The Mets have struggled so far this season loosing close games to the Tychy Falcons and Bydgoszcz Archers. One bright spot for them this season has been the play of TJ Richardson. The Maryland native is back for his second season with the Mets. Richardson has been playing defense most of his career but has stepped into the quarterback this season. The transition has been a challenge but when you watch the Mets play, you can see Richardson’s athleticism and the dimension it adds. His creativity, arm strength, and toughness make him an exciting player to watch. Warsaw is a young team that is looking to use this season to build a winning culture and improve their domestic talent. Richardson on the matchup with a talented Panthers squad:
“The Wroclaw Panthers are a top tier organization from top to bottom. They are one of the top teams in Europe for a reason and in my opinion could compete for a championship in any league. With that being said they aren’t unbeatable and have weaknesses just like anyone else.”
Look for this game to be a great showcase of talent for some of the best players in Poland. The Panthers will be eager to get back on the field to keep their momentum going, while the Mets will be playing loose with no pressure for this game. Be sure to tune in to watch some of Europe’s best players.
Watch the game live here. Warsaw Mets @ Wroclaw Panthers, Oct. 3, 14:00 CET (08:00 ET)
Wroclaw Panthers Roster (Click to enlarge)
Warsaw Mets Roster
