Germany: Pforzheim Wilddogs stun Allgäu Comets in GFL season opener
The Pforzheim Wilddogs (1–0) kicked off their ERIMA-GFL campaign with a statement 34–21 victory over the favored Allgäu Comets (0–1) at Kramski Arena on Saturday, May 11, delivering a thrilling performance in front of over 1,000 roaring fans.
Explosive start sets the tone
The Wilddogs wasted no time, scoring on the game’s first play: a trick-play lateral from Alec Tatum to Felix Dorn set up quarterback Drequan Harris’s 79-yard bomb to Luca Hirschberger for a 7–0 lead just six seconds in. Harris later orchestrated a methodical drive capped by Tatum’s rushing TD, extending the lead to 14–0. The Comets, a GFL1 staple franchise since 2014, struggled early, managing just one first down on their opening drive.
Comets claw back, crowd ignites
Allgäu found rhythm in the second quarter, with Geoffrey Greene sparking a 77-yard drive finished by Dominik Hörner’s TD. But Pforzheim answered immediately, as Luca Faschian’s touchdown made it 21–7. Hörner struck again before halftime, narrowing the gap to 21–14. The break featured a vibrant spectacle: the Bretten Drummer and Fanfare Corps and Karlsruhe European Fanfare energized fans, while sponsors G.RAU and ADMEDES launched merchandise into the stands via T-shirt slingshot.
Third-quarter tension and defensive resolve
Allgäu dominated the third quarter, grinding out a 12-play drive capped by Lars Kotzlowski’s TD. A missed PAT kept the score at 21–20, but the Wilddogs’ offense stalled amid deafening cowbell noise from traveling Comets fans. “The game threatened to slip away,” admitted quarterback Stefan Fegg.
Fourth-quarter fireworks seal historic win
Pforzheim rediscovered its groove in the final frame. René Kopec’s 24-yard TD run, breaking four tackles, ignited the crowd and extended the lead to 27–20. Colin Zimmerman’s interception halted Allgäu’s response, and Faschian’s second TD sealed the win at 34–20. The defense stifled the Comets’ last efforts, securing the franchise’s first top-flight victory.
Postgame pride and road ahead
Head coach Michael Lang praised his team’s grit: “We showed we belong here.” Board member Kai Höpfinger reflected on the club’s journey: “Years of sweat and tears led to this moment.” The Wilddogs, now atop the standings, face the Saarland Hurricanes next week before hosting the Straubing Spiders on May 25.
