Kuopio Steelers, Porvoo Butchers host semifinals in Finnish Maple League playoffs
The Finnish Maple League semifinals kick off September 5–7, featuring the Seinäjoki Crocodiles (7-3) at the Kuopio Steelers (7-3) and the Helsinki Roosters (6-4) at Porvoo Butchers (10-0), with both hosts aiming to leverage regular-season triumphs.
Friday, September 5
Seinäjoki Crocodiles (7-3) @ Kuopio Steelers (7-3)
Kuopio dominated Seinäjoki 31-17 on August 9 behind running back Ethan Greenfield’s 210-yard, two-touchdown showcase. The Steelers’ offensive line neutralized the Crocodiles’ pass rush, allowing quarterback KHari Lane to throw for 198 yards and two scores. Seinäjoki’s offense faltered in their prior meeting, with quarterback Brandon Kyles completing just 9-of-21 passes for 82 yards and running back De’Anta Sipp limited to 85 rushing yards. The Crocodiles must improve third-down efficiency (2-of-10 in August) to challenge Kuopio’s balanced attack.
Sunday, September 7
Helsinki Roosters (6-4) @ Porvoo Butchers (10-0)
Porvoo edged Helsinki 28-26 in the regular season despite being outgained 426-410 yards. Quarterback Christian Arrambide (174 passing yards, 1 TD) and MVP running back Christian Powell (155 rushing yards, 1 TD) exploited gaps in the Roosters’ defense, which managed just two sacks against the league’s top-scoring offense. Helsinki quarterback Ambro Urjansson (334 passing yards in Week 5) must overcome red-zone struggles, while rushers Lassi Pajarinen and Ville Hämäläinen seek traction against Porvoo’s stifling front.
Key factors:
- Kuopio’s ground dominance (250 rushing yards vs. Seinäjoki) vs. Crocodiles’ defensive adjustments.
- Porvoo’s offensive efficiency in critical moments vs. Helsinki’s pass-rush potential (league-leading 19 sacks).
The semifinals hinge on repeat performances: Kuopio’s power run game and Porvoo’s balanced attack face stern tests against familiar foes vying for championship berths.
