The Schwäbisch Hall Unicorns (3–2) outlasted the Saarland Hurricanes (2–5) 30–26 in a sweltering German Football League clash at Optima Sportpark, overcoming six lead changes and a controversial ejection to secure a pivotal home victory.
Back-and-forth opening half
The Unicorns struck first with Toni Trefzer’s 33-yard field goal, but Saarland responded with quarterback Walter Kuhlenkamp’s 1-yard TD plunge and Janis Kaiser’s 31-yard field goal (11–3). Schwäbisch Hall clawed back late in the half via Josh Taylor’s 15-yard TD pass to Austin Brock, trimming the deficit to 11–9 after a failed conversion.
Defensive play shifts momentum
Trailing 11–9 in the third quarter, Schwäbisch Hall’s defense delivered a decisive blow. Rookie Justin Ford forced a fumble from Saarland receiver Marvin Fuchs, which linebacker Liam Amiri returned 36 yards for a touchdown (16–11). Saarland retaliated with a 14-play drive capped by Kuhlenkamp’s 7-yard TD pass to Evan Liggett, reclaiming the lead 19–16.
Late-game heroics seal win
Taylor reignited the Unicorns with a 21-yard laser to Brock (23–19), but Kuhlenkamp answered with a 9-yard strike to Liggett (26–23). With 5:12 left, Schwäbisch Hall mounted a 68-yard drive, sealed by Mathis Harang’s 9-yard TD sprint (30–26). Saarland’s final drive ended when Kerim Altunbas strip-sacked Kuhlenkamp, with Luis Herbert recovering the fumble to ice the game.
Key performances
- Schwäbisch Hall: Taylor (2 TDs) thrived under pressure, Brock (2 TDs) dominated red-zone targets, and Harang’s late heroics offset Magnus Bumiller’s controversial ejection.
- Saarland: Kuhlenkamp (124 rushing yards, 2 TDs) bullied defenses, while Liggett (2 TDs) emerged as a red-zone weapon.
Statistical breakdown
- Turnovers: Saarland’s 2 fumbles (including the game-sealer) negated their 389 total yards.
- Red-zone execution: Unicorns scored TDs on 3 of 4 red-zone trips; Saarland settled for 2 field goals.
- Ground dominance: Saarland outrushed Schwäbisch Hall 198–112 but failed to close late.
Playoff implications
The Unicorns climb to first in the GFL South, while Saarland’s postseason hopes dim at 2–5. Both teams enter their bye weeks before resuming divisional play in July.