The aerial attack of Marshalltown was just too much as the Bobcats defeated Pella 31-7 to open the season last night. With a quarterback who lead the state in passing yards and touchdowns last season, it was no secret the Bobcats would go to the air frequently, and they did as Blake Gimbel completed 29-46 passes for 435 yards and four touchdowns, plus used his leg to add a 37 yard field goal.

Coming into the game Pella had a lot of questions to be answered after being hit hard by graduation following last season and several key pre season injuries. Coach Jay Mckinstrey says although there are some obvious things that still need work, overall he liked what he saw. Pella was able to move the ball all game long, but just couldn’t finish the drives and that’s something Mckinstrey says needs to improve as they continue through the non district season. Lucas Steenhoek stepped up his game in the second half rushing seven times for 107 yards and scored Pella’s lone touchdown. That score pulled Pella within 17-7 just past the midway point of the third quarter, however Marshalltown answered right back less than a minute later then added another in the fourth quarter.

Quarterback Josh Dewaard, who’s the lone returning offensive starter completed 15 of 24 passes for 140 yards with an interception and rushed 14 times for 65 yards. Pella will look to rebound when they host Washington in their home opener next Friday.

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