Once again: Platzgummer saves Raiders as QB

Raiders Tirol (4-2) AT Helvetic Mercenaries (0-5)

Final Score: 44 - 12

In Week 6 of the European League of Football, the Raiders Tirol came away with a 44–12 victory over the Helvetic Mercenaries. But the game was far more balanced than the score might suggest. Once again, the Raiders were forced to play without starting quarterback Conor Miller, leaving wide receiver Adrian Platzgummer to take over signal-calling duties. While Platzgummer helped lead his team to another win, the offensive output remained modest and at times inconsistent.

Mercenaries outgain Raiders but fail to capitalize

Surprisingly, it was the Mercenaries who led the game in total offensive yards with 275 compared to the Raiders’ 232. Mercenaries qarterback Josiah Norwood was a major contributor, rushing 25 times for 170 yards and scoring two touchdowns on the ground. His dynamic playmaking kept the Mercenaries in the game and repeatedly challenged the Raiders' defense.

On third downs, Helvetic was also more efficient, converting 8 of 17, while the Raiders managed only 3 of 9. Still, the Mercenaries failed to turn their solid drives into enough points, often stalling at crucial moments.

Running game and special teams make the difference 

Tobias Haslwanter once again carried much of the load for the Raiders on the ground, providing stability and helping control the tempo. This season, the running back totaled 338 yards in the first five weeks alone.

Despite not racking up big yardage numbers, Tirol was clinical in taking advantage of field position and capitalizing on Mercenaries' mistakes — especially on special teams. Poor punt coverage and miscues handed the Raiders short fields and even touchdowns multiple times.

While the Mercenaries showed real improvement and resilience on both sides of the ball, their inability to finish drives and costly errors ultimately tipped the game in Tirol’s favor. The Raiders, despite not dominating statistically, walked away with a convincing win.

© Rico Doninelli