Flamengo shuts out Vasco da Gama in Rio rivalry game
Flamengo FA – 20
Vasco da Gama Patriotas – 0
Estadio São Cristovão – Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro
‘’It’s always difficult to play a rivalry game, despite your preparation, videos, practices, meetings, there is another thing you need to prepare – your players’ heads. We did a great job preparing the guys this time,’’ said Flamengo Head Coach, Otavio Roichman, on preparing for another chapter of his squads storied rivalry against Vasco da Gama.
In a consistent drizzle and muddy conditions, Vasco threw everything they had at Flamengo in regard to pressures, but Flamengo was able to win the battle at the line of scrimmage for some tough running yards that gave them separation in the first half. Running back Felipe Florencio scored on a ten yard second quarter run, and then, later in the same quarter, quarterback KC Frost treated the crowd to one of his signature electric runs, galloping for 50 yards and breaking four tackles on his way to the end zone.
‘’Vasco has a very aggressive scheme on defense, with 8 players in the box, blitzing at least 2 guys per play. Our OL had a great game, allowing no sacks and opening great lanes for our running game, even with a very crowded box,’’ said Roichman.
Above: Flamengo Head Coach, Otavio Roichman, shares an intense moment with star running back/linebacker, Yolandus Pratt. Photo Credit: Jayson Braga, photo rights: Flamengo Futebol Americano
The second half saw Vasco threaten to pull closer on the scoreboard, by forcing some turnovers and driving the ball, but they were unable to convert. The nail in the coffin was a Frost laser to Patrick Dutton on a 15 yard post.
‘’The game was closer that the score shows,’’ said Roichman of the final score in a solid win for his undefeated squad.
AFI’s take: This was Flamengo’s first real test of the season, and they passed it. This team continues to look better every week. A tough season gets tougher for Vasco, a team who might be the most injury-plagued in the country this season. After the game, star running back, Romulo Ramos, announced that a knee injury will sideline him for the rest of the regular season and the playoffs.
Check out the entire Flamengo – Vasco da Gama game here:
