PCM’s football squad continued to struggle on the offensive side of the ball as they were shut out by Iowa Falls-Alden, 16-0 that was broadcast on the KRLS3 stream at kniakrls.com.

The Mustangs showed plenty of resilience defensively, holding the Cadets to just three points in the first half. The momentum swung in the direction of Iowa Falls-Alden when PCM was stood up at the goal line. The Mustangs got a 63-yard run from Kaden Hale to get them close, but they ultimately turned the ball over on downs. In the second half, PCM’s defense unfortunately wore down by giving up two touchdowns to Cadet fullback Gabe Hadwiger.

Hale led PCM in rushing, carrying the ball nine times for 113 yards. After accumulating 170 yards last week against Pella Christian, Aidan Anderson was held in check, mustering just 30 yards in nine touches. Freshman Gavin Van Gorp got the start at quarterback and completed five passes for 67 yards and two interceptions in the loss. Coach Greg Bonnett said that despite the loss, he was impressed with his underclassmen.

“I look out there and I see a lot of young players. I think that’s good, and you look at some of the most exciting plays that were made tonight were from freshman and sophomore type of players, so that’s exciting.”

The loss is PCM’s third straight, dropping them to 1-3 on the season and 0-1 in district play. The Mustangs will look to bounce back next week when they come back home for a showdown with Albia.