AFC Vienna Vikings outlast Graz Giants in AFL defensive slugfest to reach Austrian Bowl
The AFC Vienna Vikings defeated the Graz Giants 22-10 in a defensive Austrian Football League semifinal at a sold-out ASKÖ Stadium Eggenberg, securing a rematch with the Danube Dragons in Austrian Bowl XL on July 26 at NV Arena St. Pölten.
Scoreless start pivots on Vikings’ adjustments
A stalemate dominated the first quarter until Vienna QB Russell Minor-Shaw (13/23, 218 yards, 3 TDs) connected with Dennis-Alexandru Markovic-Juric for a touchdown and Felix Doeson added a two-point conversion (8-0). Graz responded in the third quarter via Jakob Begander’s 107-yard TD reception from Mateo Renteria (12/21, 189 yards), cutting the deficit to 15-7.
Minor-Shaw’s poise seals victory
The Vikings extended their lead with Minor-Shaw’s third TD pass, a 14-yard strike to Florian Moser (22-7). Graz managed a late Samuel Lipták field goal (22-10) but failed to convert a critical fourth down, ending their comeback bid.
Key performances
- Vienna: Minor-Shaw spread throws to seven receivers, including Moritz Riedinger (4 catches, 74 yards).
- Graz: Begander’s three receptions accounted for 107 yards and the lone TD.
Defensive discipline defines clash
Both teams avoided turnovers, but Vienna’s defense limited Graz to 258 total yards. Head coach Benjamin Sobotka emphasized: “We stayed consistent on defense except for one mistake and prevented the big plays.”
The Vikings now seek redemption after falling to the Dragons in the 2022 and 2023 finals, while Graz’s season ends at 8-3.
