Rhein Fire become first back-to-back ELF champions with resounding victory over Vienna Vikings
The Rhein Fire defeated the previously unbeaten Vienna Vikings 51-20 in front of a record crowd of 41,364 in Veltins Arena in Gelsenkirchen, Germany to become the first two-time and back-to-back champions in European League of Football history.
A strong game from Rhein Fire quarterback Jadrian Clark who threw for 276 yards and three touchdowns complimented by an opportunistic defense, were two of the key factors in handing the Vikings their first loss of the season. The Rhein Fire’s stars were on full display as league MVP Glen Toonga rushed for a 81 yards and two touchdowns while catching two passes for 96 yards and another score.
Through the air, top receivers Harlan Kwofie (6 catches for 73 yards) and Kelvin Mcknight Jr (8 catches for 89 yards) also scored key touchdowns. The Rhein Fire defense forced three turnovers on the day helping them pull away from Vienna in the second half.
With the win Rhein Fire led by former NFL head coach Jim Tomsula, became the first ever team to repeat as champions in back-to-back seasons in ELF history.
Rhein Fire head coach Jim Tomsula commented on the championship game:
“First of all I want credit the Vienna Vikings they are a first class organization. The difference was turnovers in today’s game that’s what made us the better team today.”
