London Warriors outlast Red Lions in 78-point AFLE shootout

The London Warriors (2-4) completed a season sweep of the Firenze Red Lions (0-5) Saturday, pulling away for a 44-34 victory in an entertaining American Football League Europe matchup that featured momentum swings, explosive plays and big performances on both sides of the ball.

After defeating Firenze 51-26 earlier this season, the Warriors once again found enough offense to secure a valuable road win and build momentum heading into Week 8.

Warriors strike first

The Warriors wasted no time taking control.

Choosing to receive the opening kickoff, quarterback Karé Lyles connected with Marcus Libman on a 40-yard touchdown pass to cap the game’s opening drive. Although the extra point was blocked, London had established the fast start it wanted.

Libman continued to torment the Red Lions secondary, adding a second touchdown as the Warriors raced to 20 first-quarter points. Lyles repeatedly looked to his top target whenever a big play was needed, while the offense consistently stretched the field through the air.

A blocked field goal returned for a touchdown also proved to be a huge early momentum swing in London’s favor.

Red Lions battle back

Despite the rough start, the Red Lions refused to go away.

Quarterback Matthew McKay answered with a 38-yard touchdown pass to Devin Carter, beginning what turned into a remarkable four-touchdown performance by the receiver. Carter repeatedly found openings in the London defense and became McKay’s most reliable target throughout the afternoon.

Firenze also received a strong defensive effort from Nacho Diz, whose impact plays helped keep the home team within striking distance despite losing its starting running back on the opening drive.

Pressure proves decisive

The second half opened with both offenses slowing down before London’s defense began taking control.

The Warriors generated consistent pressure with a four-man pass rush that disrupted McKay’s rhythm and prevented Firenze from completing its comeback. Although the Red Lions continued to compete until the final whistle, they could never quite match London’s offensive production.

The victory sends the Warriors into next week’s road game against the Alpine Rams with renewed confidence, while the Red Lions will try to carry the encouraging signs from this performance into their Week 8 matchup against the Berlin Thunder.