Its Playoff week in the Finnish Maple League starting off Saturday with the number one seeded Kuopio Steelers hosting the number four seeded Seinäjoki Crocodiles. These two teams met on August 22nd with Seinäjoki winning 14-7, handing the Steelers their only loss of the season.
The Kuopio Steelers come into the playoffs with an impressive 4-1 record. They have a very athletic group of defenders that have been smothering opposing offenses all season, allowing only 21 points per game. They won last week against a quality Wasa Royals team 55-30. Veteran defensive end Jani Lindqvist had some thoughts on the Steelers‘ success on defense this season:
“I think our defense has been great because we all know what to do. We follow our playbook and calls and do what the defensive coordinator wants us to do. We want to win as a team and have fun on the field.”
Seinajoki Crocodiles @ Kuopio Steelers, Sept. 5, 16:30 EEST (15:30 CET, 9:30 ET)
Their one loss of the season came in the form of a 14-7 loss to the Crocodiles on a slippery field in Seinäjoki. During that game, the Steelers offense was largely ineffective. Look for quarterback Seth Peters and running back Lamar Carswell to be eager to show that they can put up points against a tough Crocodiles defense. Carswell led the Maple League in total touchdowns with 12 after the five game regular season and is likely eager to redeem himself against the Crocodiles this week.
The Seinäjoki Crocodiles come into the playoffs after a up and down season. They finished the short season with a 3-2 record, highlighted by quality wins over the Helsinki Roosters and of course the Steelers. Seinäjoki have recently found their identity as a ground-and-pound mixed with play action offense. Last week quarterback Spencer Cutlan had his best game of the season, passing for 284 yards and two touchdowns against a depleted Porvoon Butchers defense. Look for Cutlan’s passing and the Crocodiles strong running game to determine this games outcome. Christian Powell has been the bell cow for Seinäjoki’s offense rushing for 803 yards and 10 touchdowns in only five games. Powell had some thoughts on playoff week:
“We Just have to play our game, being smart and disciplined. Put guys in positions to make plays and capitalize on opportunities.”
Last time these two teams met it was one of the best games of the Maple League season. Look for the Crocodiles running game and tough defense to match up well against a talented Steelers offense and athletic defense in what should be another close game.
Watch the game live here. Seinajoki Crocodiles @ Kuopio Steelers, Sept. 5, 16:30 EEST (15:30 CET, 9:30 ET)
Click on images to enlarge.
Kuopio Steelers starting lineup and roster
Seinajoki Crocodiles starting lineup and roster
