The UNC Crusaders aim to bounce back from a tough loss last week as they host the Helsinki Roosters in Lohja tonight, Thursday May 26 in the Finnish edition of Thursday Night Football. Both teams have shown a bit of rust in the early part of the season and look to find their identity as the season heats up.
UNC’s offense led by veteran Shay Netter aims to bounce back after a forgettable performance last week against the Helsinki Wolverines when they lost 45-6. Expect Netter to get the ball in the hands of brothers Nolan and Miles Corpening as the two are some of the fastest players in the Maple League. Another option open to the Crusaders at quarterback is Cedric Johnson. The experienced receiver has played quarterback on many occasions during his long Maple League career.
Helsinki Roosters @ UNC Crusaders, May 26, 17:30 CET (5:30 pm, 11:30 ET)
The visiting Roosters have had an up and down start to the season, losing 49-20 to the Kuopio Steelers in week one, before bouncing back with a 57-6 blowout win of their own against Kotka last week. Fans can expect quarterback Bryce Stancombe to play better as the season goes on and he builds chemistry with his receiving core. Running back Aatu Mikkonen is also a key player to watch in this one, as the homegrown talent ran for 133 yards last week, averaging over 10 yards a carry.
Defensively, the Roosters front seven presents quite a challenge for the Crusaders as defensive lineman Taavi Aronpaa has been a force so far this season, recording 11 tackles and a sack last week. On the back end former Illinois University (NCAA D1) import Nolan Bernat will look to neutralize the Crusaders‘ best offensive playmakers.
Helsinki and coach Juha Hakala are unhappy with how their season started and responded well in week 2. Now the Roosters have another chance to prove their opening loss was a fluke and they can still compete with Kuopio and others for the title. UNC hopes to pull off an upset at home much like they did last year against the eventual champions, the Kuopio Steelers.
LIVESTREAM FINLAND: Helsinki Roosters @ UNC Crusaders, May 26, 17:30 CET (5:30 pm, 11:30 ET)
