Pella celebrated homecoming against one of 4A’s best again, but missed opportunities on offense allowed #3 Cedar Rapids Xavier to pull away in a 28-3 district clash in favor of the Saints, as heard live on KRLS2 Friday.

A Preston Rowe sack and Aidan Pollock kick return gave Pella prime real estate, but the Dutch settled for a 38 yard Luke Hardman field goal — the only points for the green and white on the night. Pella went 0-for-2 on 4th and goal and four total drives on the night that ended in Xavier territory generated just the three points.

The shorthanded Dutch defense struggled to contain the Saints’ ground game in the second half. Head Coach Jay McKinstrey says they can’t make any excuses about their depth being tested, and he’s thankful for the fight in those suiting up and stepping into roles on short notice against some of the best teams in Class 4A.

Pella falls to 2-4 overall and 1-1 in Class 4A District 4; they welcome Oskaloosa for Senior Night next week.