LIVESTREAM AFLE: London Warriors @ Firenze Red Lions, July 4, 17:00 CET (5 pm, 11 am ET)
The London Warriors (1-4) head to Florence on Saturday looking to complete a season sweep of the Firenze Red Lions (0-4) after earning a convincing 51-26 victory in the teams’ first meeting earlier this season in American Football League Europe.
That Week 4 matchup marked the first victory in franchise history for the Warriors, who consistently moved the football while taking advantage of defensive breakdowns by Firenze. Now the Red Lions will try to turn the tables on home turf, while London looks to build on that earlier success.
Offense looks to stay balanced
The formula for the Warriors is straightforward. Quarterback Karé Lyles has thrown for 1,080 yards and 10 touchdowns this season, although his eight interceptions highlight the importance of protecting the football. His favorite target has been Kevin Laryea, who has hauled in 23 passes for 261 yards and two touchdowns.
On the ground, Andy Owusu has paced the rushing attack with 239 yards and two touchdowns on 54 carries, giving London the balanced offense it needs to control the tempo.
Watch live. London Warriors @ Firenze Red Lions, July 4, 17:00 CET (5 pm, 11 am ET)
Although the Warriors enter the game coming off a 62-10 loss to the unbeaten Vienna Vikings, the bye week provided valuable time to regroup and prepare for the rematch.
Red Lions seek breakthrough
The Red Lions continue searching for their first victory after another difficult outing against the Wroclaw Panthers. Quarterback Matthew McKay has thrown for 551 yards and five touchdowns this season, while Lorenzo Cinelli leads the receiving corps with 11 catches for 192 yards and one score.
Running back Brandon Belgrave has been one of the bright spots offensively, rushing for 258 yards and a touchdown on 53 carries.
Defensively, Firenze has struggled to contain explosive offenses, allowing 51 points to London and 48 to the Panthers in consecutive home games.
If the Warriors can protect the football and recreate the offensive rhythm they found in the first meeting, they’ll have an excellent opportunity to leave Florence with another victory and complete the season sweep over the Red Lions.