Waimea gets last gasp score to edge Kauai, secure D2 state berth

Brien Ing | SL

For the first time since 2003, Waimea is heading to the state postseason.

The Menehunes dug deep defensively all game long and mustered just enough offense in its final drive to put an all important score on the board in a 6-0 victory over Kauai at Vidinha Stadium Saturday.

"We were going 0-0 all the way to the third quarter so it was really tense and nerve-wracking for us since the last game we beat them 44-0," said Haweo Akeo."But that last drive that we got the touchdown on, that's like the peak of our offense right there and what we can do."

That five play, 53 yard drive was capped by a 19 yard pass completion from Kameron Apilado to Akeo for the only score of the game.

"That route was supposed to be a 5-and-out, but he (the defensive back) lined up where I was going to run it. So coach called a stick on the inside where the linebacker would usually be, but he wasn't there so I ran like a 5 or 7 yard stick," explained Haweo. "I caught the ball, turned around did some moves and then got into the end zone, but it was a good pass from our quarterback too."

One play earlier, it was Apilado calling his own number on a keeper that went for a 25 yard gain.

"I dropped back, it was good for a second then the defense started coming in so I had to roll out. So I tried to do my best," said Apilado.

From there, the Menehunes defense did the rest, with Apilado putting the seal on the game with a diving interception on the right sideline to seal the win.

"That was crazy holding them to zero again, but we worked together as a team. That's what it's all about. That last pick was big for us," said Haweo.

A key first half play came in the waning seconds of the second quarter, with Kauai on the Waimea two yard line on fourth and goal. The Red Raiders opted to dial up an inside run, but the Menehunes line surged to the challenge to keep the game scoreless.

Defense and special teams accounted for six turnovers in the contest, three picks by Waimea, a fumble recovery for Kauai and a blocked punt for each team. The Red Raiders also blocked the extra point attempt of the game's only score.

The victory ensures Waimea of a berth to the Division II state tournament, schedule and seeding still to be determined. In the Menehunes last appearance, they reached the semifinal game, falling to Damien 17-13.