Pella Boys Soccer Team Wins Home Opener Over North Polk

A first-half goal from Hank Duffy was the difference in the 1-0 victory.

Apr. 1, 2026 at 4:00pm

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The Pella boys soccer team opened their season with a 1-0 home win over North Polk on Tuesday. Hank Duffy scored the game's lone goal in the 17th minute, assisted by Johnny Shaw, and the Pella defense held on for the remaining 63 minutes to secure the victory.

Why it matters

Pella is looking to build on a strong season last year, and this win over a conference rival gives them momentum heading into the rest of the schedule. North Polk will be hoping to rebound after the tough road loss to start their campaign.

The details

Hank Duffy's goal in the 17th minute, set up by a pass from Johnny Shaw, proved to be the difference in the game. Pella's defense was stout, keeping North Polk off the scoreboard for the final hour of play to preserve the 1-0 win.

  • The game was played on Tuesday, April 1, 2026.
  • Hank Duffy scored the game-winning goal in the 17th minute.

The players

Hank Duffy

A Pella player who scored the game-winning goal in the 17th minute.

Johnny Shaw

A Pella player who assisted on the game-winning goal.

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What they’re saying

“Our defense really stepped up today to protect the lead. I'm proud of the effort from the whole team.”

— Hank Duffy, Pella Player

What’s next

Pella will look to build on this win when they travel to Des Moines Christian on Thursday, April 3rd.

The takeaway

Pella's 1-0 victory over North Polk in their season opener shows the team has the defensive fortitude to grind out close games, an important quality for a squad with championship aspirations.