Poland put up a plucky fight against Sweden in the team's first ever international fixture in American football, losing 14-27 in Saturday's clash.

Sweden's Martin Kwarnmark (L) and Jesper Gregersson (R) clash with Łukasz Olemańczuk (C): photo - PAP/Grzegorz Michalowski

“Although we didn't win, I don't think we have anything to be ashamed of,” said Zbigniew Schrejber, who scored Poland's first ever touchdown, as cited by the official web site of the Polish American Football League (PLFA).

“It was decided in the details and in the broader experience of our opponents,” he added.

“This is just the beginning of the road for the Polish team on the European scene,” he assured.

“On Friday, when we got our shirts with the [Polish] eagle, all the players were filled with pride,” he revealed.

The match was played indoors at the Atlas Arena in Lodz, central Poland. Some 6000 spectators turned out to catch the Polish debut.

“Despite the result I am proud of our players,” said coach Maciej Cetnerowski.

Poland's American Football Association (PLFA) was founded in 2004, and 8 teams play in its premier league (Topliga), and another 8 in its second league. (nh)



