The real battle of Berlin is here!

Berlin, a city divided for decades after that little spat they called the second world war two, will once again be thrown into tumultuous tension as it's two top flight teams take to the field for their opening games of the 2012 GFL season.

Billed across the city as the Haupstadt Battle (beautiful example of Denglish) this promises to be an excellent game played in an electric atmosphere.  With heavy promotion being done for the last few weeks there should be an excellent crowd on hand to see these two lock horns as they set the tones for their seasons.  In the immortal words of my moral compass and Celebrity Deathmatch referee Mills Lane; "Let's get it on!".

There can be only one...

The perennial German and European powerhouse Berlin Adler, a fixture in playoffs, both domestic and international, will look to get their season off to a flying (no pun intended) start against the leagues new boys, the Berlin Rebels.

The Adler have been cock of the walk around the German capital for what seems like forever, ruling the roost while racking up German bowl appearances, German bowl titles as well as European accolades.  With a very low-key offseason the Adler have been plotting behind closed doors and bringing in low-profile imports as they will rely on the veteran experience of returning players both from Germany and Europe rather than making flashy moves to snatch up high-profile American imports: all very Belichick-esque wouldn't you say?

Taking a slightly different approach to the offseason the Berlin Rebels made some significant moves to bring in talent to a young roster that has grown in experience and confidence since the team last played in the German top flight back in 2010.  Head Coach Kim Kuci has brought in big play guys at WR and RB that should help the offense out and allow them not to rely entirely on the stellar D overseen by Defensive Coordinator Javier Cook.  Speaking of that D they've made some moves of their own to bring in talent at every level of the unit; players coming in to play for the men in black from America, Europe and even transfers from other German teams.  There is definitely a buzz about the defense that has assembled on Berlins west side this year.

From an Irish perspective Ross McCooey has made a switch this year from D to O; more specifically to the offensive line, even more specifically to right guard.  McCooey's move to OL should provide a bit more speed for the already solid line while also bringing a bit of that fighting Irish attitude to ze Germans already there.  With the Irishman penned into the starting line up this will also mark the first time and Irish-born player will play for a GFL1 team on a GFL1 field (Darragh Farrell having missed Lubeck's opener last week due to illness).

Ross McCooey, OL, Berlin Rebels

Der Irlander managed to catch the Irishman for a quick word as he excitedly paced back and forth in front of the Brandenburg gate.  However, when asked how he felt about the game we could only speculate as to what he was muttering under his breath form behind his scouting report.  Suffice it to say he's pretty excited for the chance to test his mettle against one of the best Germany and Europe has to offer as he steps onto a GFL1 field for the first time.

If anyone's about Berlin tomorrow afternoon, be sure to check in on Mommsenstadion for what is sure to be a thriller!

Until the aftermath all.

Slán!