Vienna Vikings outlast Raiders Tirol in high-scoring “Battle of Austria”

The Vienna Vikings (5–1) extended their dominance over the Raiders Tirol (4–3) with a 44–38 victory in a thrilling European League of Football clash at Tivoli Stadium, maintaining their unbeaten record in the rivalry and tightening their grip on the East Division lead.

Vikings’ explosive first half sets tone
The Vikings stormed to a 30–15 halftime lead, scoring on every first-half drive. Quarterback Ben Holmes (24/33, 255 yards, 5 TDs) orchestrated a precise aerial attack, connecting with tight end Florian Bierbaumer (7 receptions, 80 yards, 3 TDs) for multiple scores. A Raiders interception deep in their own territory late in the second quarter allowed Vienna to extend their advantage, capitalizing with a Holmes-to-Bierbaumer touchdown. Running back Florian Wegan added 104 rushing yards, balancing the offensive onslaught.

Raiders’ late surge falls short
Trailing 36–15 entering the fourth quarter, the Raiders mounted a frantic comeback behind quarterback Nathaniel Perry (25/38, 396 yards, 4 TDs). Receiver Jordan Sullivan (6 receptions, 158 yards, 1 TD) anchored the aerial attack, while running back Lukas Haslwanter (15 carries, 72 yards) stabilized the ground game. The Raiders narrowed the gap to 44–38 with 29 seconds remaining, but Vienna recovered the onside kick to seal the win.

Key statistical disparities

• Total yards: Raiders outgained Vienna 493–464 but committed 11 penalties to the Vikings’ 6.
• Ground control: Vienna dominated time of possession (36:40 vs. 23:20), grinding the clock with Wegan’s runs.
• Red-zone efficiency: The Vikings converted all five red-zone trips into scores, while Raiders stalled twice inside the 20.

Playoff implications
The Vikings solidified their East Division lead and now face the surging Prague Lions (4–2) in Week 8. The Raiders, slipping to third in the Central Conference, host defending champion Rhein Fire (5-2) in a must-win matchup to stay in wild-card contention.

Standout performances

• Vienna: Holmes’ 5-TD showcase, Bierbaumer’s red-zone dominance, and Wegan’s 11.6 yards per carry.
• Raiders: Perry’s 396-yard passing explosion and Sullivan’s 26.3-yard per-catch average.

Despite the Raiders’ valiant comeback, Vienna’s early dominance and clutch fourth-down stops proved decisive, extending their “Battle of Austria” streak to 8–0 in ELF history.