The Munich Ravens (6-1) staged a stunning second-half comeback to defeat the Madrid Bravos (4-3) 43–40 in a Week 8 European League of Football thriller, solidifying their grip atop the Central Conference while dealing a blow to Madrid’s Western Conference playoff hopes.
Tabor’s heroics ignite Ravens’ rally
Trailing 26–9 at halftime, Munich quarterback Russell Tabor engineered a masterful turnaround, completing 21 of 31 passes for 264 yards and three touchdowns while adding 53 rushing yards and a score. His poise under pressure—evident in a 12-play, 88-yard fourth-quarter drive—culminated in the game-winning touchdown pass with 1:27 remaining. Tabor’s connection with receiver Markell Stanley (10 receptions, 169 yards, 2 TDs) proved unstoppable during the rally.
Sinnett’s record day not enough for Bravos
Madrid quarterback Reid Sinnett delivered a historic performance, completing 35 of 43 passes for 426 yards and four touchdowns, with receiver Anthony Cruickshank (9 receptions, 97 yards, 2 TDs) becoming the first ELF player to surpass 1,000 receiving yards this season. Despite Madrid’s 497 total yards and a 26-point halftime lead, their defense collapsed in the second half, allowing 34 points after the break.
Photo: Paula Romo
Turning point: Third-quarter surge
Munich flipped the script in the third quarter, scoring three unanswered touchdowns to take a 29–26 lead. Running back Jaryn Rodney (14 carries, 88 yards, 1 TD) gashed Madrid’s defense, while Tabor’s 34-yard strike to Stanley tied the game. The Ravens’ balanced attack (256 passing yards, 176 rushing yards) kept Madrid’s defense guessing, erasing their 17-point deficit in just 14 minutes.
Key stats and playoff implications
- Total yards: Munich 432, Madrid 497.
- Time of possession: Munich 29:41, Madrid 30:19.
- Third-down efficiency: Munich 6/13, Madrid 3/11.
- Penalties: Munich 10 for 88 yards, Madrid 8 for 57 yards.
The loss drops Madrid to 4–3, jeopardizing their postseason bid in a competitive Western Conference. For Munich, the win strengthens their position as Central Conference frontrunners, with Tabor solidifying his MVP candidacy.
Late-game drama seals classic
After Madrid reclaimed a 40–35 lead with 1:55 remaining, Tabor’s 43-yard completion to Stanley set up the decisive score—a 6-yard touchdown pass to tight end Lukas O’Connor. Munich’s defense then forced a three-and-out, clinching the comeback.
Standout performers
- Munich: Russell Tabor (4 total TDs), Markell Stanley (169 receiving yards).
- Madrid: Reid Sinnett (426 passing yards), Anthony Cruickshank (1,000+ season yards).