The Prague Lions (4–2) secured a convincing 37–16 road win over the Frankfurt Galaxy (3–4) at PSD Bank Arena in Frankfurt, propelled by quarterback Javarian Smith’s four-touchdown performance and a stifling defensive effort.
Smith’s precision dismantles galaxy defense
Smith (13/21, 153 yards) carved up Frankfurt’s secondary with touchdown passes to David Luksan (14-yard, 10-yard) and Willie Patterson (30-yard, 10-yard), while adding a 14-yard rushing score. The Lions capitalized on short fields, scoring twice off drives starting in Frankfurt territory. Prague’s offense dominated time of possession (36:35) and third-down efficiency (11/15 conversions).
Photo: © Jakub Platenik
Patterson, Zouzelka deliver dual-threat dominance
Receiver Willie Patterson (7 receptions, 94 yards, 2 TDs) stretched defenses vertically, while rusher Antonie Zouzelka (24 carries, 122 yards) anchored the ground game. The Lions’ balanced attack outgained Frankfurt 430–213 total yards, with 277 rushing yards overwhelming the Galaxy front.
Galaxy’s fleeting bright spots
Frankfurt quarterback Matthew McKay (16/30, 145 yards) salvaged pride with two rushing touchdowns (7-yard, 12-yard), but three interceptions derailed momentum. Kicker Ryan Rimmler’s 57-yard field goal – the ELF’s longest this season – provided a first-half highlight.
Defensive struggles compound Frankfurt’s woes
The Galaxy failed to sack Smith and allowed touchdowns on four red-zone drives. Prague’s defense forced three turnovers, including a critical interception by Marek Hrubon, who later added a 34-yard field goal. Frankfurt’s 6 penalties and 4/11 third-down efficiency underscored disjointed execution.
Key stats
- Prague: 0 turnovers, 11/15 third-down conversions, 7 penalties.
- Frankfurt: 3 turnovers, 4/11 third-down conversions, 6 penalties.
Playoff implications
The Lions solidify their postseason bid ahead of a July 5 road clash against the Vienna Vikings (5–2). The Galaxy, now third in the ELF West standings, host the Stuttgart Surge (2–4) on July 12 in a must-win game to revive playoff hopes.