Legnano Frogs stifle the Torino Giaguari to secure Italian Football League semifinal berth

The Legnano Frogs dominated the Torino Giaguari 28-7 at Milan’s Velodromo Vigorelli, advancing to the Italian Football League semifinals behind a relentless defensive effort and quarterback Luke Zahradka’s three-touchdown showcase.

Defensive tone set early
Legnano established control immediately, with linebacker Maffi returning a first-quarter fumble for a touchdown. Zahradka followed with a rushing score, while kicker Gioco split two extra-point attempts for a 13-0 lead. The Frogs’ defense smothered Torino’s offense, allowing just 46 total yards in the opening half.

Second-quarter separation
After a defensive stalemate, Zahradka connected with receiver Alessandro Pulsinelli for a late first-half touchdown. A successful two-point conversion to Tommaso   Calegari extended the lead to 21-0, silencing Torino’s hopes of a rally.

Pulsinelli’s breakout performance
The third quarter cemented Legnano’s dominance as Zahradka found Pulsinelli twice more in the end zone. Gioco’s conversions pushed the margin to 28-0, with Pulsinelli’s route-running exploiting gaps in Torino’s secondary.

Late consolation, semifinal prep
Torino avoided a shutout in the fourth quarter via quarterback Evan Lewandoski’s touchdown pass to Tommaso Tenconi, converted by kicker Salsa. Legnano closed the game with reserves, including quarterback Alessandro Zerbo, draining the clock efficiently.

Key contributions
Zahradka (3 total TDs) and Pulsinelli (2 receiving scores) spearheaded Legnano’s attack, while Maffi’s fumble return TD set an early physical precedent. Torino’s lone bright spot came from Tenconi’s late touchdown.

Road ahead
The Frogs advance to face the unbeaten Firenze Guelfi in the semifinals, seeking to disrupt the Tuscan squad’s title defense. Legnano’s stifling defense—which held Torino to 2.8 yards per play—will face its toughest test yet.