Austria: Prague Black Panthers defeat Swarco Raiders Tirol in pivotal AFL road victory

The Prague Black Panthers (4-4) secured a critical 24-10 road win over the Swarco Raiders Tirol (2-6) at the Innsbruck American Football Center, leveraging defensive turnovers and clutch second-half execution to bolster their playoff hopes.

Defensive battle defines first half
The Raiders struck first with Emanuel Trinkl’s 35-yard field goal, but Prague’s defense set the tone by intercepting Swarco quarterback Stefan Maiacher late in the second quarter. Linebacker Jakub Janda’s pick set up Jakub Wolesky’s 2-yard rushing touchdown, giving the Panthers a 7-3 halftime lead after Martin Mandik’s missed 31-yard field goal.

Third-quarter momentum swings
Mandik extended Prague’s lead with a 46-yard field goal, but Maiacher answered with a deep touchdown pass to Simon Pilger, tying the game at 10-10. The Panthers responded immediately, reclaiming the lead on Wolesky’s second rushing score. A failed onside kick attempt by the Raiders handed Prague prime field position, and quarterback Norman Douglas sealed the game with a touchdown pass to Jan Vrnata.

Key contributions
Wolesky’s two rushing touchdowns and Douglas’ late scoring strike offset Maiacher’s three interceptions. Mandik’s three PATs and critical field goal provided stability, while Prague’s defense held the Raiders to 2-of-10 third-down conversions. For Swarco, Pilger’s 58-yard touchdown reception highlighted an otherwise disjointed offensive effort.

Coaches’ reactions
Panthers coach Jayson Miller praised his team’s disciplined execution: “We stuck to our plan in all phases.” Raiders coach Dominik Bauer acknowledged the uphill playoff battle: “Only a win counted today. We still have a small chance.”

Road ahead
Prague strengthens its postseason position ahead of a matchup with the Graz Giants on June 14. Swarco must regroup defensively after allowing 17 unanswered second-half points, their fourth loss in five games.