astern. Just seconds after lifting anchor, Guerrero opened fire from around with her main gun battery. A running battle ensued; Tampico did not stop to fire until after passing Shell Point; once on the other side, she opened fire with her two guns and one gun at Guerrero. Tampico had one other 6-pounder gun on board but only the one would be used in the battle. Upon receiving fire, Captain Torres, ordered his ship to maneuver into position for a broadside attack with his six 4-inch guns; Guerrero fired but none of her shots hit their target. At this time Morelos was about off Guerreros portside when she opened fire. A gunnery duel continued for sometime; ultimately no hits were made by either side who were firing at each other from a range of away. Guerrero had a better armament than Tampico; Guerreros guns were in much better condition which gave her a farther range than that of Tampico. This would become a major factor in the coming battles which gave the federals a distinct advantage over the Constitutionalist gunboat. Eventually Tampico made for the protection of Topolobampo's port; she entered past the bar and the fighting ended. The gunboat Guerrero again anchored outside the bar, to initiate a naval blockade while Morelos left for Guaymas for coal and provisions; she would return a few days later. Aftermath Throughout the engagement, none of the rounds fired hit their targets. Tampico, according to report, fired far more accurately than the other two gunboats. Of her rounds, one was spotted short of Guerrero, another 50 yards over, and one more, just off Guerreros portside. Guerrero fired about twenty rounds that morning, Morelos about seven and Tampico fired fourteen. On 13 March, Tampico would test the federal blockade during another bloodless sea battle known as the Second Battle of Topolobampo. See also Pancho Villa Expedition Second Battle of Topolobampo Third Battle of Topolobampo Fourth Battle of Topolobampo References Stefoff, Rebecca. Independence and Revolution in Mexico. (New York, Facts On File Inc, 1993). http://www.semar.gob.mx/informes/politicas_armada/parte_dos/capitulo_3.htm History of Mexico 1914 in Mexico Conflicts in 1914 Mutinies Naval mutinies Topolobampo 11 First Battle Of Topolobampo Topolobamp 1 March 1914 events