Brazil: Vasco da Gama Patriotas overwhelm Corinthians Steamrollers for 3rd straight win

AFI | American Football | 08/15/2017

Photo: Nilton Brito

The Vasco da Gama Patriotas remain unbeaten in Brazil’s BFA league after trouncing the Corinthians Steamrollers 30-6 this past weekend at the Miécimo da Silva Sports Center to take sole possession of first in the Southeast Division West.

This was the fourth time in six games the Patriotas have triumphed over the Steamrollers.

Patriotas quarterback Daniel Gazelle threw two first half touchdowns to wide receivers Samuel Saraiva and Rudá Andrade while running back Caio Vidal ran one in. Backup quarterback Roni Rodrigues connected with R40 for a second half touchdown for Vasco da Gama. Yan Viana kicked a first half field goal as well.

The Steamrollers lone touchdown came from wide receiver Rodrigo TJ Brown.

The Patriotas took a 24-0 halftime lead after dominating the first two quarters. Gazelle set up Viana’s field goal to give Vasco da Gama a 3-0 lead and then, still in the first quarter Vidal found the end zone to extend the lead to 10-0.

Gazelle connected with Saraiva for another first quarter touchdown and the Patriotas were in control of the game 17-0. On the very next possession, Patriotas defensive back Washington Junior “Russo” picked off a pass and Gazelle made the Steamrollers pay finding Andrade for the third touchdown of the first half, making the score 24-0.

Neither team could muster much offense after the break until Corinthians wide receiver Rodrigo TJ Brown hauled in a pass and rumbled into the end zone to break the shutout.

However, the Patriotas responded as R40 took a pass from Rodrigues scoring the game’s final touchdown and giving Vasco da Gama a 30-6 victory.

Up next

With an impressive unbeaten 3-0 record, the Patriotas can clinch the playoffs with a win in their next game against the Santos Tsunami at home on September 2. Meanwhile, the Steamrollers travel back to Rio de Janeiro to face the Flamengo Emperorers on August 26 in a game that is of utmost importance to both teams for a chance at making the playoffs.