Xplorers can't overcome injuries, Firecats
May 29, 2004 - arenafootball2 (af2)
Memphis Xplorers News Release
ESTERO - The Memphis Xplorers of af2, battling injuries and a fired-up opposing defense lost Saturday night 43-30 to the Florida Firecats at TECO Arena before 5,096 people.
Firecats FB/LB Steve Gorrie had a monster game, rushing for over 50 yards and two touchdowns and scoring a two point conversion. During the game, Gorrie set the all-time career rushing record for af2.
The Xplorers encountered trouble early, as Florida's defense played bump-and-run coverage all over the field on the Memphis receiving corps. QB Brian Jones completed only 11 of 21 passes in the first half, and only managed one touchdown throw, a 5 yard strike to WR Robert Kilow.
The Xplorers were unfortunately bitten by the injury bug during the contest several times, and that led to Memphis losing key personnel at inopportune times. OS Kevin Prentiss came up limping several times, and spent the second half on the bench in street clothes. FB/LB Jon Tekac left the game in the second quarter with a knee injury. And QB Brian Jones left the game for good early in the fourth quarter with an unspecified injury.
The Xplorers, who trailed by 12 points early in the fourth quarter, were unable to convert on eight straight plays inside the Firecats 10 yard line. This goal line stand proved to be the difference, as Memphis fell short in their bid to win.
Gorrie was named the Baby Ruth Real Deal Offensive Player of the game for his performance. WR/LB Cainon Lamb picked up Army Ironman of the Game honors, and Firecats DS Roy Stabler was named ADT Defensive Player of the Game.
The loss dropped the Xplorers to 4-4 on the season, while Florida improved to 5-3. Memphis will return home next weekend as they host the Bossier-Shreveport Battle Wings at 7:05 pm CST at the DeSoto Civic Center in Southaven.
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