Back on Track
After a weekend long on heart but short on victories, your Zurich Intruders got back on track with two crucial triumphs over the Winterthur Warriors and upstart Yverdon Ducs. Even the simplest of games hold layers of gridiron intrigue, and here is what we uncovered during Zurich's field trip to Solothurn:
1. In the early morning tilt, the Intruders faced off against Winterthur Warriors, the red headed step children of Switzerland's 6th largest city. Still in the hunt for a coveted wildcard spot, Zurich started strong with a big interception by Pfiffner and even quicker touchdown strike to Guay to put them up 7-0. Despite some sloppy play afterwards, including two bobbled balls from receivers that went straight into the hands of waiting Warriors, the Intruders were never really threatened.
2. Sure, the usual suspects garnered their share of end zone real estate, but the day's real story was Zurich's depth and steady rotation. Bridenbaker and Anja Mae supplied the blitz and eight different Intruders, including Teubert, Miller and Martinez, hauled in scores of varying value, as the Orange and Gray won going away 53-25. CB Pfiffner had two picks, but could've snagged four, and the defense kept Winterthur (0-6) in check most of the game. Going into the summer break with the important games ahead, the kind of camaraderie and grit demonstrated on Saturday is the steam on which the champion-ship runs.
3. Cipullo's game management began well before the second frame, as a timely thrown rock crushed scissors and dreams from the opening coin toss (no coins were harmed or tossed in the making of this decider). The seldom errant QB drove his team down the field, spreading the ball around before finding Boroski for the opening TD and extra point and a lead the Intruders would never relinquish.
4. If there's one thing our erstwhile QB loves more than slinging the ball down the field, it's football related fun for the whole family. For the first time in league history, the Intruders will be hosting a tournament at Sportanlage Allmend in picturesque Frauenfeld. All of your favorite Intruders (except Dave, who will be attending the U-21 Dutch mixed doubles squash semi-finals in Groningen) will be there serving the best damn ribs, burgers and brownies ever to grace your simple palate. For a game winning drive that is sure to secure your family's MVP (most valuable parent) vote, bring your team down to Frauenfeld field this Saturday.
5. The 33-26 final score betrays the Intruders' dominant performance, though the expansion Ducs (1-4, pronounced Dukes, definitely not Ducks) fought gamely against their intrastate foes. Drive sustaining penalties from a little bit of Intruders' bump n' grind defense and pinpoint pitch and catch between the Ducs QB and tall outside receivers kept this game from being a route. The Yverdon defense never quite solved the riddle wrapped in an enigma that is the Orange and Gray offense, as a bomb to Guay, Hadari and Boroski touchdowns accounted for the bulk of the scores. In a rare instance of obedience the Intruders (5-2-1) listened to Coach Lewis and ran out the clock in the Ducs' red zone to assure the victory.
6. Maybe the 10 franc concession stand wine helps view an uneven weekend through rosé colored glasses, but the two wins and upgraded Solothurn facilities made for a solid day out for our intrepid heroes. The long summer pause promises rest to veteran legs and bides time for key playmakers to return from the ether. Until then, the team will be hosting NFFL action, including the U-13 and U-16 flag football finals, a bouncy castle (!) and ribs that have been soaking in pineapple juice and spices while you are read this article. Join us in Frauenfeld this Saturday, and tell'em JB sent you (which will get you absolutely nothing but good will and tasty grub).