Fourth quarter surge lifts Farrington over Moanalua

Farrington's Jacob Talamoa (15) heads to the end zone after breaking through Moanalua's defense scoring on a 50 yard run extending their lead 36-27 with 3:42 left in the fourth quarter. CJ Caraang | SL

Farrington improved to 3-1 on the season with a hard fought 37-27 win over upset-minded Moanalua, rallying from a 27-20 deficit midway through the final quarter behind the strength of its rushing attack and a key defensive play.

Jayce Bareng's 65 yard punt return for a score edged Moanalua back in front at the 7:13 mark of the fourth for the fifth lead change of the game, but from that point onward, momentum swung Farrington's way.

The ensuing drive saw Sitani Mikaele cap off a run heavy drive with a four yard plunge to vault the Govs back ahead by a point, then pad the lead two more points courtesy of Zion Vea, who tackled Kama Corales in the end zone for a safety.

Momentum was clearly going Farrington's way, and the possession following the safety was capped off by a 50 yard run by Jacob Talamoa on the first play of the drive, all but sealing the deal.

Mikaele was the workhorse for the Govs, carrying the ball 28 times for 129 and two scores. Talamoa added 75 rushing yards and two scores on just five carries, and another 50 yards on three receptions. He also kicked five point after touchdowns, accounting for just about half of the scoring in the game for Farrington.

Bareng was the big play guy for Na Menehune, adding 4 receptions for 85 yards and a score to go along with his punt return for touchdown.

Farrington's defense recorded nine tackles for loss and three sacks in the contest, and added a late interception that put the game on ice.