Austria: AFC Vienna Vikings dominate Salzburg Ducks in defensive showcase
The AFC Vienna Vikings (2-1) extended their winning streak in the Austrian Football League this past weekend with a 14-0 shutout road victory over the winless Salzburg Ducks (0-3) in a game defined by defensive grit and missed opportunities for the hosts.
Defensive Standoff in Early Quarters
Both teams struggled to establish offensive momentum in a scoreless first quarter. The Ducks reached the red zone on their opening drive but squandered the chance with a costly fumble. Vienna’s offense sputtered early, managing only brief possession time before a punt handed Salzburg another opportunity. The Ducks advanced to the Vikings’ 20-yard line late in the half but failed on a fourth-down pass attempt by quarterback Ian Gehrke, keeping the game deadlocked.
Vikings Break Through Before Halftime
Vienna’s offense finally ignited on their third drive, powered by a methodical ground game. Running back Matthias Moser capped the series with a physical red-zone touchdown run, followed by kicker Kevin Voznyak’s successful PAT. The Vikings entered halftime with a 7-0 lead, leaving the Ducks to rue two failed scoring chances.
Second Half Seals Victory
The Vikings’ defense stifled Salzburg in the third quarter, while their offense delivered a decisive blow. Running back Kevin Wojta extended the lead with a 6-yard touchdown dash, and Voznyak’s extra point pushed the margin to 14-0. Salzburg’s late fourth-quarter push to the Vikings’ 7-yard line ended in heartbreak as cornerback Raylens Boutin intercepted Gehrke’s pass, extinguishing hopes of a comeback.
Coaches’ Reactions
Salzburg’s Joe Ashfield praised his team’s resilience but lamented execution: “We’re improving weekly, but failing to convert chances hurts. The points will come.”
Vienna’s Benjamin Sobotka highlighted consistency: “Our defense sets the tone. When our offense finds rhythm, we’re tough to stop.”
The Ducks seek their first win in two weeks against the Black Panthers, while the Vikings aim to build momentum in their playoff pursuit.
