SPLIT AGAINST THE LEAGUE LEADERS
Cold and rainy weather marked the beginning of the final home game day of the season at Südallee in Benrath. The guests were the Krefeld Crows, league leaders and known for their error-free play and powerful offensive actions. An opponent the coaches of the Düsseldorf Senators held in high regard.
“For us, it was mainly about continuing the impressive season so far,” explained Head Coach Frank Mohr before the game. “We have experimented a lot, tested new players and positions. Of course, it’s tempting to reach for more when you see how well we’re playing. But our focus is on the development of our young players. They are our future, and we want to approach this development with care.”
In the first game, Lina Schwippert took on the responsibility in the pitcher’s circle – and did so impressively. With 11 strikeouts, she kept the Crows’ offense in check. The Senators’ offense was also in great form, collecting a total of 14 hits. In the end, it was a well-deserved 8–3 victory for the hosts.
“It was more exciting than the score might suggest,” the coaches said after the game. “We had to make a number of adjustments, many players were not fully fit. Having Lina in the circle for the first game was a huge help.”
After a short break, it was time for the second game of the doubleheader – and with it, the chance to take sole possession of first place in the standings. But in the first three innings, the Senators struggled both offensively and defensively. The Crows, unfazed by their opening defeat, quickly built a clear 10–1 lead.
“I have to admit that we were shaken up quite a bit and too often just watched the balls go by,” said Head Coach Mohr. Still, the Senators fought back in the final two innings, repeatedly putting runners in scoring position and even loading the bases. But too often, the decisive hit was missing. Defensively as well, small mistakes crept in: throws were just a tick too long or too short, and even balls that seemed safely caught slipped out of the glove and fell to the ground.
So in the end, it remained a 6–15 defeat against the strong-performing visitors.
At the end of the day, the split against the league leaders was another sign of how far the Senators have come this season. Between a spirit of new beginnings, the development of young players, and the ambition to keep up with the very best, the final home game day was a fitting snapshot of this special season.
“We still have four games left, and it’s already clear that for the first time, we’ll finish the season with a positive record. I’m especially happy about that for the girls.”
Next Saturday already brings the next matchup against the Jülich Duchess. The impressive streak of four wins in four games should give the team confidence, but the coaches warn against drawing premature conclusions:
“All the games against Jülich have been exciting and high-class. Nothing is decided yet. We’re really looking forward to this final duel of the season – by Saturday night, we’ll know more.”
