The Seinäjoki Crocodiles (3-2) travel to Lohja to take on the UNC Crusaders (1-5) in this Friday night Finnish Maple League matchup. The visiting Crocodiles are hoping to make the playoffs in late august. The home team Crusaders would love nothing more than to play spoiler and get the upset victory in front of their home fans tonight.
Seinäjoki Crocodiles @ UNC Crusaders, July 15th, 17:30 CET, (5:30 pm, 11:30 am ET)
The Crocodiles’ are coming off of a heartbreaking 36-34 loss to the Helsinki Wolverines last week. In that game running back Christian Powell flashed the same speed and size that make him one of the league’s best running backs, scoring two touchdowns. However, quarterback Anthony Whitehead stole the show showing good mobility and throwing for four touchdowns. Expect the Powell and Whitehead show to continue as the two-man band will also feature appearances from Finnish talent such as Joel Sarkela and Anttoni Lampivuo
Former “Last Chance U” star and University of Tennessee (NCAA DI) defensive lineman Emmit Gooden was a key part of the Crocodiles’ defensive performance. The slender long armed defender was able to slip blocks well and create pressure, along with fellow defensive lineman Arthur Pinheiro and Fillip Zacok. Expect these three to have big games today against a lackluster Crusaders line.
UNC is feeling great after last week’s victory. Quarterback Shay Netter played well earning the Crusaders first win of the season throwing for 280 yards and three scores, along with two interceptions. The gunslinger spread the ball around well as Cedric Johnson, and Miles and Nolan Corpening were able to contribute making 19 catches for 227 yards.
UNC’s defense played will need to stop the run this week as the Crocodiles love to run the ball. Look for the UNC defensive line’s performance to be a key factor in this one.
LIVESTREAM Finland: Seinäjoki Crocodiles @ UNC Crusaders, July 15th, 17:30 CET, (5:30 pm, 11:30 am ET)
