Finland: Winning streaks on the line as Tampere Saints host Kuopio Steelers

The Tampere Saints (2-4) welcome the Kuopio Steelers (4-2) to Pyynikki on Friday night as two of the Maple League’s hottest teams put their winning streaks on the line. While both clubs have won their last two games, the Steelers arrive as one of the league’s top contenders and will be looking to complete a season sweep after a convincing 49-13 win over Tampere earlier this year.

Steelers getting healthier

The timing couldn’t be much better for Kuopio.

Linebacker Christopher Cox is set to return after missing the last two games, giving the Steelers another boost to a defense that has already been outstanding during his absence. Kuopio shut out the Wasa Royals 17-0 last week, and over its last two games has outscored opponents 72-7.

Cox made his presence felt the first time these teams met, leading the Steelers with 8.5 tackles in the Week 2 victory. His return adds another experienced playmaker to a defense that has been one of the toughest units in the league.

The Steelers could still be without linebacker Jaakko Paananen, who remains listed as questionable, while offensive weapon Daniel Rubinstein has been ruled out for at least this game.

Saints finding offensive balance

Although wide receiver Logan Collier remains the player every defense circles before kickoff, the Saints have become much more than a one-man offense over the past two weeks.

Wide receiver Kimi Tuomi has emerged as quarterback Christopher Howard Jr.’s favorite target, hauling in 15 receptions for 250 yards and three touchdowns over the last two games. His production has helped give the passing attack another dimension alongside Collier.

The running game also showed signs of life last week as Konsta Mäenpää broke out with 157 rushing yards and two touchdowns on only 16 carries, averaging an impressive 9.8 yards per attempt.

Howard Jr. appeared to suffer an injury late in the previous game, but the starting quarterback is expected to be under center after what proved to be only minor bumps and bruises.

Another tough test

The Saints have built momentum with back-to-back victories and know another upset would strengthen their push for a playoff spot.

The challenge, however, is significant.

Kuopio has been dominant on both sides of the ball during its current winning streak and already owns a decisive victory over Tampere this season. If the Steelers can slow Collier, limit the impact of Tuomi and continue controlling games defensively, they’ll be in an excellent position to leave Pyynikki with another important Maple League victory.