After 48-0 defeat at the hands of Ljubljana Silverhawks, Novi Sad Dukes are preparing revenge in their own city.
Match scheduled for Sunday, May 15, 16:00 CET, will be 7th edition of this matchup, with Novi Sad leading the series 4-2. History of their clashes started back in 2006, when in first edition of then-called South-Eastern League of American Football Ljubljana won the first game 9-7, but survived one of biggest defeats in second leg, 56-0 in Novi Sad.
Dukes then won three games in a row: it was 38-0 for them in 2007, 13-6 in 2008 and 7-3 in 2009 before Silverhawks’ strike back – 33-19 at the end of season. Humiliating 48-0 on April 17, 2010 has shown that Dukes’ decision to travel to Slovenia without complete team wasn’t wise, as Ljubljana strengthened their squad with several quality players and shown that they won’t be an easy task this season.
Team from Novi Sad strengthened their squad, also, by adding their long-time injured quarterback Rastko Jokic on active list. For the first time since 2009 he played for Dukes in domestic Superleague and reminded immediately how big impact he can bring – Novi Sad defeated Sombor 43-13 with Jokic’s four touchdown-passes. Despite administrative details could overrule the final result of that game, Dukes are obviously back with their main man at the helm of offense.
On the other hand, Silverhawks are ready for being tough opponent once again. This season they were on the brink of becoming first team that defeated Vukovi at their Ada pitch, but 10-0 lead at the half-time wasn’t enough as reigning champions prevailed and won 21-10. Ljubljana then run all over Dukes in Round 2, and made Budapest Wolves work hard until their 17-13 victory has been achieved by last-minute touchdown. With high stakes in this game, there’s no doubt that match in Novi Sad will bring CEFL excitement once again.