The Alliance Bulldogs took to the gridiron last Friday in their season-opener against the Chadron Cardinals. Alliance benefited from two touchdowns in the 1st quarter and then held on for a 14-7 victory over the Cardinals.
With help from the offensive line, Bulldog tailback Mitch Pancost pounded The Cardinals, rushing for 149 yards on 33 carries. Bulldog quarterback Isaac Burnham made his first start at quarterback, completing 3 of 10 passes for 39 yards.
The Cardinals were led by tailback Braxtyn Hespe who rushed for 44 yards on 5 carries, and caught the ball 4 times for 25 yards. Also leading the Cardinals was Sophomore quarterback T.D. Stein, who finished 6 for 15 passing, for 55 yards.
Alliance’s tenacious defense benefited from a key play by Tyson Dowler who intercepted the ball on the 14 yard line with just over a minute remaining to seal the win for the Bulldogs.
Next Friday, September 2, the Bulldogs will travel to Gordan-Rushville to take on the Mustangs, while Chadron will travel to Torrington to play The Trail-Blazers.