 |
| (photo credit: espn.go.com) |
A lackluster first half that started with a Tampa Bay (1-8)
fumble returned for a touchdown by Steel defensive end Reggie Wilson, ended
with a 21-7 Portland lead. The second half brought many more fireworks in
Portland’s return home to the Moda Center after seven consecutive games on the
road.
Steel quarterback Shane Austin led the offensive deluge,
posting five passing touchdowns with no interceptions, and adding two more
rushing touchdowns. Five of those scores came in the second half, contributing
to both teams combining for 49 points in the fourth quarter.
After extending their lead to 26 points on multiple
occasions, Portland had to stave off an offensive surge on the Tampa Bay side.
Quarterback Jason Boltus had 303 yards and fourtouchdowns (with two
interceptions) while receiver T.T Toliver accumulated 10 catches, 140 yards and twotouchdowns.
Portland’s defense set the tone throughout the game.
Starting with Wilson’s first quarter return, the defense forced a
total of six turnovers. Defensive back Sergio Gilliam had both Steel
interceptions of Boltus, and Tim Shelley returned another fumble for a score in
the fourth quarter.
Portland’s next matchup is in Arizona next Saturday against
the Rattlers (6-3). Tampa Bay will host the Jacksonville Sharks (4-4). Both
teams will be looking for their second win of the season.
No comments:
Post a Comment