Tampa Bay Bandits Outpace Memphis Showboats, 27-16

The Tampa Bay Bandits secured their tenth win of the season with a well-rounded performance against the Memphis Showboats at Tampa Stadium. Tampa Bay controlled the pace early, scoring on their first drive with a John Reaves touchdown pass to Greg Boone. Zenon Andrusyshyn added an 18-yard field goal later in the quarter to put Tampa Bay up 10-0. Gary Anderson extended the lead in the second quarter with a 5-yard rushing touchdown, capping a methodical 14-play, 80-yard drive. Memphis managed to get on the board just before halftime with a short field goal by Alan Duncan but trailed 17-3 at the break.

The Showboats found some rhythm in the second half behind quarterback Mike Reich. Reich connected with Tim Spencer for a 6-yard touchdown in the third quarter, cutting the deficit to 17-9 after a missed extra point. Tampa Bay responded with Reaves finding Eric Truvillion for a 13-yard touchdown, reinstating a two-score cushion. Memphis fought back in the fourth, with Reich hitting Bill Rogers for a 14-yard score to make it a one-possession game. However, the Bandits sealed the victory with a clock-killing 12-play drive culminating in another Andrusyshyn field goal.

Eric Truvillion led all receivers with 8 catches for 130 yards and a touchdown, earning game MVP honors. The Bandits’ defense was equally impressive, forcing three turnovers, including a late-game interception by Eric Wilson. The win keeps Tampa Bay atop the standings and in strong playoff position as they move to 10-2 on the season.