Kuopio Steelers dominate Tampere Saints in Maple League rout
The Kuopio Steelers (3-2) overpowered the winless Tampere Saints (0-5) 55-7 at Väinölänniemi Stadium, extending their winning streak to three games while handing the Saints their fifth consecutive defeat in a lopsided Finnish Maple League clash.
Steelers’ ground game unstoppable
Kuopio’s offense amassed 657 yards, spearheaded by running back Ethan Greenfield’s dominant return from injury. The American racked up 233 rushing yards and two touchdowns, earning the game’s Most Outstanding Player honor. Despite plans to limit his playtime, Greenfield remained impactful for three quarters before ceding carries to backups. QB K’Hari Lane threw four touchdown passes including three to wide receiver Nicolas Kuikka, while backup QB Johan Rabi added another via a trick play.
Saints’ struggles deepen
Tampere, already fielding a depleted roster, suffered additional injuries during the game, forcing substitutions across multiple positions. Their lone highlight came in the final quarter when David Chaves Jimenez, returning from injury, broke free for a 75-yard touchdown run. The Spaniard’s two-way effort provided minimal consolation for a defense that allowed touchdowns on all but one Kuopio drive.
Defensive futility vs. offensive precision
The Saints’ defense failed to contain Kuopio’s relentless attack, with Tommi Turunen’s forced fumble (recovered by Luca Koskenkanto) standing as their sole stop. Kuopio’s offensive line bulldozed through gaps, while Greenfield’s vision and power left Tampere’s defenders grasping.
Road ahead for both teams
Kuopio’s momentum builds ahead of a midseason push, while Tampere faces another tough test against the Porvoo Butchers before a bye week offers respite. Head coach Micheal Mattingly praised his team’s discipline: “We executed our game plan perfectly, but need to stay sharp for tougher challenges.”
The Saints, still seeking their first win, must address defensive gaps and injury management to salvage their season. For Kuopio, Greenfield’s resurgence signals playoff ambitions as the Maple League’s second half unfolds.
Source: Vaahteraliga
