The Pforzheim Wilddogs (3-0) exorcized past demons with a commanding 44-19 victory over the Straubing Spiders (1-2) at Kramski Arena, avenging prior playoff heartbreaks and cementing their unbeaten start in the GFL Southern Division.
Wilddogs’ early dominance sets tone
From the opening drive, Pforzheim executed head coach Michael Lang’s game plan of clock control through short passes and runs to perfection. After a failed Spiders field goal attempt, quarterback Dre Harris connected with Luca Hirschberger for a first-quarter touchdown (7-0). The defense then forced consecutive turnovers, including a pivotal interception by Alejandro Andrade, whose 80-yard return extended the lead to 27-0 by halftime.
Defense, special teams spark rout
Straubing’s offense sputtered under quarterback Louis Whitmann, managing just 19 first-half yards. Pforzheim’s defense capitalized with three turnovers, including Andy Lehmann’s end-zone interception. The Wilddogs’ offensive versatility shone as Hirschberger (2 TDs), Theo Michel (1 TD), and Lehmann (2 TDs) all contributed scores, while the rushing committee wore down Straubing’s front.
Spiders’ fleeting rally meets resilience
A second-half Spiders adjustment stifled Pforzheim receiver Alec Tatum, but running back Sidney Gibbs finally broke through with a 6-yard TD (34-6). Straubing exploited Wilddogs’ kick-return vulnerabilities, adding late scores from Leroy Rummeli and Simon Gendrisch. However, Pforzheim’s offense remained unflappable, grinding clock with methodical drives and sealing the win with Lehmann’s second TD.
Legacy of redemption
For Pforzheim, the victory erased bitter memories of Straubing’s past playoff upsets. “The team was on fire,” said Coach Lang, praising his squad’s focus. The Wilddogs enter their bye week atop the South Division, while Straubing must regroup ahead of a critical clash against the Allgäu Comets.
Key performances
- Pforzheim: Hirschberger (2 TDs), Andrade (80-yard INT return), Lehmann (2 defensive TDs).
- Straubing: Gibbs (1 TD), Gendrisch (late TD).
Looking ahead
The Wilddogs return in Week 4 against the Ravensburg Razorbacks, aiming to sustain their balanced attack. For Straubing, addressing red-zone inefficiency (1/3 on early drives) and kick coverage will be priorities to salvage their season.