Photo submitted by David Robbins

It was as close as billed to open the 2024 season, but it was advantage Dutch after scoring 20-unanswered points in the 4th quarter to take a 29-17 win from Ballard, as heard live on 92.1 KRLS Friday.

The Dutch opened the game with a scoring drive after the Bombers fumbled on the second play from scrimmage. While the home team was able to build a 17-9 lead, Pella answered with a passing touchdown and rushing score by debuting quarterback Colin Kerndt, both in the 4th quarter. An Emmanuel Diers pick-six late in the Ballard comeback attempt sealed the victory.

Diers finished with 136 yards from scrimmage, a rushing score, and the interception for a TD; Bailey Shetterly caught the passing score from Kerndt. Lake Cowman added an interception on defense as well.

The Dutch open at 1-0 and host Keokuk at Central College on Friday, September 6th.