Finland: Helsinki Wolverines edge East City Giants in defensive season opener
The Helsinki Wolverines (1-0) narrowly defeated the East City Giants (0-1) 13-9 in a gritty defensive showdown at the Velodrome, marking the Finnish Maple League’s 2024 season opener. A packed crowd witnessed the Giants’ long-awaited return to the league after 24 years, but Helsinki’s late-game heroics sealed the victory in a contest defined by penalties and stifling defense.
Defensive battle defines opener
The game’s physical tone was set early, with both teams combining for 20 penalties—11 by the Giants and nine by the Wolverines. Sloppy execution overshadowed offensive rhythm, as frequent flags disrupted momentum. Helsinki’s defense set the pace, holding East City to three field goals despite the Giants’ aggressive no-huddle approach.
Wolverines grind out crucial scores
Kicker Joel Hentunen opened the scoring with a first-quarter field goal, while Helsinki’s lone touchdown came in the final quarter via NCAA standout Joshua Youngblood’s decisive punt return. Youngblood, stifled as a receiver, instead showcased special teams brilliance. Defensive end Sebastian Lugora anchored the Wolverines’ relentless pass rush, notching six sacks and earning MVP honors. Quarterback Rasmus Laalo leaned on short throws under pressure, with Matias Tuominen emerging as a key target.
Giants’ offense struggles to find rhythm
East City’s Rayna Stewart III managed a third-quarter touchdown scramble to briefly lead 9-6 but faltered under constant pressure. The Giants’ aerial attack sputtered, with Stewart’s deep throws misfiring and three sacks derailing drives. Rookie running back Arttu Blomqvist provided a bright spot, exploiting gaps in Helsinki’s front with explosive runs.
Standout defensive performances
Linebacker Alvin Reels Jr. led the Wolverines with 6.5 tackles, while ex-Butchers star Felix Salonen topped East City’s charts. Both defenses dominated, holding opponents to a combined 22 points. Helsinki’s secondary blanketed the Giants’ receivers, limiting Stewart to 104 passing yards.
Looking ahead
The Wolverines’ resilience without offensive fireworks signals potential in tight contests, while the Giants must address penalty discipline and deep-ball execution. Helsinki faces the Seinäjoki Crocodiles next, while East City seeks redemption against the Porvoo Butchers. For now, the Velodrome’s return to Maple League action proved that even in a sloppy opener, defense still reigns supreme.
