The Kuopio Steelers (6-3) cemented their playoff aspirations with a commanding 70-13 victory over the East City Giants (2-8) at Myllypuro Stadium, unleashing a first-half onslaught to end the Giants’ season on a humbling note.
Steelers’ first-half fireworks secure dominance
Kuopio left no doubt early, scoring nine touchdowns in the first two quarters to lead 63-0 at halftime. Quarterback KHari Lane dominated, completing over 70% of his passes for 241 yards and five touchdowns while adding a rushing score. Receiver Nicolas Kuikka starred with three touchdown catches and 101 yards, while Ethan Greenfield tallied two scores and 137 yards—all before the break. Head coach Michael Mattingly rotated reserves in the second half, halting the scoring surge but preserving energy for the playoffs.
Giants’ depleted roster shows fleeting resilience
East City, missing quarterback Rayna Stewart, fullback Nolan Bernat, and lineman Jared Almeida, struggled against Kuopio’s pressure. Rookie Neo Nieminen, making his first start, endured relentless sacks but managed two second-half touchdowns to receiver Ronny Lindroos (102 yards). Linebacker Felix Salonen anchored the defense with 11 tackles, finishing fourth in the league with 59 total stops—the highest among Finnish defenders.
Key performances underscore mismatch
- Kuopio: Lane’s six total touchdowns and Kuikka’s trio of scores highlighted a record-setting half.
- East City: Salonen’s tackling consistency and Nieminen’s late poise provided rare bright spots.
The Steelers’ emphatic win strengthens their case for home-field advantage in the postseason, while the Giants conclude a turbulent campaign plagued by injuries. Kuopio’s balanced attack and stifling defense position them as playoff contenders, contrasting sharply with East City’s uphill battle to rebuild in 2026.