Düsseldorf Panther grind out tough win over Hildesheim Invaders
The Düsseldorf Panther (3-4) edged the Hildesheim Invaders (2-5) 13-10 in a rain-soaked German Football League defensive battle this past weekend, capitalizing on timely big plays and red-zone consistency to secure a crucial home victory.
Early defensive grind
Both teams struggled in miserable conditions, with Hildesheim’s Maas Preevo missing a first-quarter field goal and the Panthers stifling the Invaders’ opening drives. Düsseldorf’s offense warmed slowly but claimed momentum with two second-quarter field goals from the toe of Yannic Noell Schorn (33 and 46 yards) for a 6-0 lead.
Second-quarter surge
Quarterback Cole Stenstrom ignited the Panthers’ breakthrough, threading a 41-yard touchdown pass to Julien Vast late in the half. The score, paired with a successful PAT, stretched the lead to 13-0. Hildesheim answered with a Preevo 31-yard field goal, but Düsseldorf entered halftime firmly in control.
Controlled second half
Running back Dean Tanwani anchored the Panthers’ ball-control strategy, grinding out consistent gains to drain the clock. The defense held firm despite Hildesheim’s late rally, which saw Pieter Solf haul in a 38-yard touchdown pass from Hendrik Scharnbacher. Düsseldorf sealed the win by denying the Invaders a final possession, clinching their third win of 2024.
Key performances
- Düsseldorf: Stenstrom (1 TD pass), Vast (41-yard TD catch), Tanwani (critical rushing contributions).
- Hildesheim: Christian Klötergens (interception, defensive leadership), Scharnbacher (1 TD pass under duress).
Missed opportunities haunt Invaders
Hildesheim left nine points unclaimed via two missed field goals and two red-zone failures, including a turnover on downs. “We made too many mistakes to win,” admitted Invaders coach Marcus Herford. The Panthers’ disciplined special teams (2/2 FG) and zero turnovers proved decisive.
Looking ahead
The Panther host Hildesheim in a Week 9 rematch on July 26, aiming to solidify playoff credentials. The Invaders, now 2-5, face the Paderborn Dolphins next on July 20, seeking to revive their season. Düsseldorf’s gritty win underscores their resilience, while Hildesheim must address red-zone inefficiency to avoid further slippage.
