The Berlin Rebels (8-4) closed their 2025 GFL North campaign with a commanding 24-10 home win against the Hildesheim Invaders (4-8), securing momentum ahead of their playoff rematch against the Munich Cowboys on September 20.
Early exchange sets competitive tone
Kicker Kris Cain opened scoring for the Rebels with a 38-yard field goal (3-0), but Hildesheim responded swiftly. Quarterback Hendrik Scharnbacher connected with Vincent McDonald on an 86-yard touchdown pass, followed by Tristan Eikenberg’s PAT and 25-yard field goal, giving the Invaders a 10-3 lead.
Defensive stands shift momentum
After Scharnbacher exited with a second-quarter injury, Berlin capitalized. Tyquell Fields, replacing starter QB Aaron Jackson, found Jackson for a 21-yard TD (10-10). The Rebels’ defense then stifled Hildesheim’s makeshift offense, highlighted by DB Felix Mohlberg’s interception.
Fields, Uderhardt seal victory
Fields spearheaded Berlin’s second-half surge, scrambling for a 3-yard rushing TD (17-10) before hitting WR Filip Uderhardt on a 17-yard strike. Uderhardt’s score—his 10th GFL touchdown, a franchise record—extended the lead to 24-10. Cain’s flawless PATs (3/3) underscored Berlin’s efficiency.
Playoff-bound rebels eye rematch with cowboys
The Rebels’ defense dominated the final quarter, intercepting backup QB Vincent McDonald twice and halting red-zone drives. Berlin rested starters late, preserving energy for their upcoming quarterfinal in Munich.
Season reflections
While Hildesheim’s McDonald shone (136 receiving yards, 1 TD), the Invaders’ offensive inconsistency and 12 penalties proved costly. For Berlin, Fields’ dual-threat prowess (2 total TDs) and Uderhardt’s record-breaking play solidified their third-place North finish. The Rebels now aim to avenge their Week 11 loss to the Cowboys, leveraging their late-season defensive resurgence.