The Seinäjoki Crocodiles (5-2) escaped Pyynikki Field with a hard-fought 28-21 victory over the winless Tampere Saints (0-7), overcoming a shocking 14-0 deficit to preserve their playoff positioning in the Finnish Maple League.
Early adversity tests resolve
A sluggish start saw the Crocodiles concede two quick touchdowns to the Saints’ revamped offense, including a debut score by American receiver Logan Collier. Quarterback Brandon Kyles acknowledged postgame, “We underestimated their energy, but this team never panics.”
Kyles’ poise sparks comeback
Trailing 14-7 at halftime, Kyles engineered three second-half scoring drives, threading precise throws to French receiver Djibryl Aliamane (2 TDs) and Finnish standout Justus Virtanen (112 yards). His 28-yard touchdown strike to Aliamane late in the third quarter gave Seinäjoki its first lead at 21-14, capitalizing on adjusted coverage schemes.
Sipp’s ground dominance
Running back De’Anta Sipp bulldozed Tampere’s defense for 144 rushing yards, including a pivotal 12-yard touchdown early in the fourth quarter to extend the lead to 28-21. His physical runs drained clock and demoralized the Saints’ front seven, with 98 of his yards coming after contact.
Defensive adjustments seal deal
After allowing 14 first-quarter points, Seinäjoki’s defense tightened, limiting Tampere to 1-of-6 third-down conversions in the second half. Fullback Aatu Tuokko’s clutch interception with 2:12 remaining — snatching a deflected pass from Jessie Robbins — iced the game. “We knew they’d target Collier again,” Tuokko said. “I just trusted my reads.”
Key contributions
- Third-down defense: Held Tampere to 0/4 in critical fourth-quarter drives.
- Red-zone efficiency: 3/3 scoring attempts, all touchdowns.
- Time of possession: Controlled the clock for 19:02 in the second half.
Road ahead
The Crocodiles remain fourth in the standings, but concerns linger about slow starts ahead of matchups with title contenders. “Surviving games like this builds character,” head coach Jari Laitinen noted. “But we’ll need sharper execution to contend in December.”
Final word
While far from flawless, Seinäjoki’s resilience under pressure underscored their pedigree as a playoff threat. With Sipp’s legs and Kyles’ arm heating up, the Crocodiles aim to sharpen their bite ahead of a postseason push.