Xplorers defense leads way to season opening win
April 1, 2006 - arenafootball2 (af2)
Memphis Xplorers News Release
HUNTSVILLE, AL --- The Memphis Xplorers made it a success debut in the defense of their ArenaCup championship with a 47-25 win over the Tennessee Valley Vipers Saturday night in Huntsville, AL in the 2006 season opener. Brian Jones threw for 295 yards and 6 touchdowns and Kenny Higgins made his debut as offensive specialist with 8 catches for 172 yards and 3 touchdowns.
Despite those offensive numbers, it was the defensive stops that won this game for Memphis. Two consecutive stops in the first half and a goal line stand late in the third quarter turned the tide in the Xplorers favor. After the first quarter ended with a 26-19 Memphis advantage, the visitors outscored the home Vipers 21-7 in the second half, 21-0 in the 4th quarter.
The win was the Xplorers' 10th straight going back to last season, their second in eight meetings with Tennessee Valley and first ever at the Von Braun Center in Huntsville. Jones was the Schutt Offensive Player of the Game while Deon Giddens took home the ADT Defensive Player honors.
The Xplorers will host their home opener for week two of the af2 season on Saturday, April 8 at 7 pm. The Florida Firecats, who had a first week bye, will come to the DCC. The first 1,500 fans will receive a 2006 Xplorers magnet schedule.
The Xplorers will defend their Arena Cup Championship in 2006 and you can be in on the action. The season begins on April 1 at Tennessee Valley with the home opener on April 8 versus the Florida Firecats.
Season Tickets are available now and begin as low as $56. Don't miss all the action of the "50-Yard Indoor War." For season ticket information call the Xplorers office at 662-342-1755.
Single game tickets are also available now starting at $12 and can be purchased online at www.ticketmaster.com, by calling 901-525-1515 or in person at the DeSoto Civic Center box office during business hours.
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