Finland: Tampere Saints stun Helsinki Roosters in season-ending upset

| American Football | 08/23/2025

The Tampere Saints (2-8) closed their Maple League campaign with a seismic 13-9 victory over playoff-bound Helsinki Roosters (6-4) at Pyynikki Stadium, disrupting the visitors’ quest for home-field advantage in the postseason.

Saints’ defense dominates lifeless Roosters
Tampere stunned the reigning champions with two first-quarter touchdowns, including a 74-yard opening drive capped by quarterback Jessie Robbins Jr. and a second score from star receiver Logan Collier. The Saints’ defense suffocated Helsinki’s offense, holding them to under 100 rushing yards and forcing three sacks, two interceptions, and seven punts. Linebacker Juho Angervo anchored the effort with eight tackles, while Dajion Newell and Collier each snagged critical picks.

Roosters’ playoff concerns mount
Helsinki, already missing key linemen, saw their ground game sputter as American rusher Justin Prostinak managed 73 yards on 12 carries but failed to break loose. Quarterback Ambro Urjansson, pressured into errant throws, connected with rookie Hermanni Raitanen for the team’s lone touchdown—Raitanen’s first Maple League score. Receiver Tarmo Pitkänen (5 catches, 75 yards) provided brief sparks, but the Roosters’ inability to sustain drives (3-of-12 third-down conversions) exposed lingering imbalances.

Playoff implications and silver linings
The loss jeopardizes Helsinki’s chances of hosting a playoff game, requiring wins in their final two matchups to reclaim momentum. For Tampere, the upset punctuates a turbulent season with a landmark triumph, showcasing defensive grit and rookie contributions. Robbins Jr.’s poised leadership and Collier’s two-way impact (TD, interception) offer hope for 2026.

Key takeaways

  • Tampere’s defense held Helsinki to 1-of-4 red-zone efficiency.
  • The Roosters’ rushing attack (3.8 yards per carry) remains a liability.
  • Helsinki’s secondary allowed just 142 passing yards but failed to contain Collier’s early explosion.

The Saints’ farewell performance at Pyynikki resonated as a blueprint for growth, while the Roosters face urgent adjustments to defend their title.

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