Invaders storm to the top of the table with 35:3

The Hildesheim Invaders remain flawless this season: On the third matchday, they defeated the Düsseldorf Panthers 35:3 in front of 1,000 spectators at the Helios Homefield. It was their third win in three games – and it puts the Invaders at the top of the table.

Noticeable: For a long time, the game seemed like a classic defensive duel, with both teams struggling to find rhythm. But with the first big offensive strike from the hosts, the game clearly shifted. Hildesheim remained consistent afterwards, increased the tempo after halftime – and turned a close start into a comfortable home victory. For head coach Marcus Herford, it was also his first win against a team from the North division after two games against teams from GFL 1 South.

Even for a long time, then Hildesheim pulls away

In the early stages, the defensive lines dominated. The Panthers initially kept Hildesheim's offense in check, while the Invaders also allowed little on the other side – the game remained close and low-scoring. The decisive breakthrough for the hosts came in the second quarter.

Quarterback Nelson Hughes put the Invaders in the lead with a deep pass: his 40-yard throw into the end zone found Noah Bomba for a touchdown. Shortly after, Pieter Solf added another, and Hildesheim pulled ahead 14:0. Düsseldorf managed to get on the scoreboard before halftime, but only with a field goal to make it 14:3 at the break. Thus, the door to the game remained formally open – but Hildesheim never really lost control.

The decision comes after halftime

After the break, the previously contested game became a clear affair. Hildesheim consistently extended their lead and visibly shifted the focus to the running game: Paul Terjung ran for two touchdowns, giving the offense the stability needed to decisively turn close games.

Philipp Dolezal contributed six more points. The gap grew step by step – and with each drive, the likelihood of a Düsseldorf comeback decreased. Hildesheim played out the second half in a controlled manner and left no more doubts: In the end, it was a comfortable 35:3 home win.

Perfect start, now the derby in Braunschweig awaits

Three games, three wins, top of the table: The Invaders' start to the season has been optimal so far. The 35:3 win carries extra weight because it was Hildesheim's first victory this season against a team from the North division – a result that sends an early signal in the race for the standings.

The next test comes as soon as next Saturday: In the Lower Saxony derby, the Invaders will play at 4 p.m. at the Eintracht Stadium against the Braunschweig Lions. Hildesheim travels as league leaders to their rivals, who are at the bottom of the table after three opening defeats. For the Invaders, it's not just about continuing their streak, but also about confirming their strong start under derby pressure.