HUMBOLDT, IA -- In a thrilling non-conference matchup at Humboldt, the Ballard Bombers came up just short against the Humboldt Wildcats, losing 21-18.  The game was a tightly contested battle with both teams showing their resilience and determination, but Humboldt edged out Ballard with a key second-half drive to secure the victory.

The Bombers, led by senior quarterback Mason Gatchel, made significant strides throughout the game.  Gatchel completed 16 of 29 passes for 170 yards, but the Bombers struggled to find the end zone through the air, finishing with no passing touchdowns.  Despite this, Gatchel kept the offense moving, averaging an impressive 10.6 yards per completion.

On the ground, senior Tucker Vitzthum led the rushing attack with 11 carries for 43 yards.  Gatchel also added a rushing touchdown, but the Bombers were limited to just 72 total rushing yards, averaging 3.1 yards per carry.

The Ballard receiving corps worked hard, with sophomore Parker Miller leading the way with 6 receptions for 66 yards, while senior Eric Sydnes added 47 yards on 3 catches.  

Defensively, senior Jackson Wacha was a standout for Ballard, recording 14 total tackles, including 12 solo tackles and 3 sacks.  Wacha also grabbed an interception, returning it for 23 yards, giving Ballard a chance to shift the momentum.  Senior Tucker Vitzthum also added an interception to his night, while senior Rhett Hedrick and sophomore Cole Berka each contributed a sack.

Special teams provided a spark for the Bombers, with Vitzthum electrifying the crowd with a 98-yard kick return for a touchdown, which kept Ballard in striking distance.  Junior Jude Gibson added 57 yards on two kick returns, but Ballard's overall efforts came up just short in the closing minutes.

After the loss, the Bombers fall to 0-2 (0-0) on the season.  Ballard will look to bounce back next week as they return home to face Creston on September 21, with the freshman and varsity games set to begin at 4:45 PM.

Photo Credit: Richie Thompson Photography