Kalani players celebrate in the circle after the final out in a victory over Kaiser. Brien Ing | SL

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Kalani players celebrate in the circle after the final out in a victory over Kaiser. Brien Ing | SL

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A key win amidst a tight race atop the OIA Division I standings was good all by itself, but the relief on Christen Horita's postgame reaction gave away just how sweet a 14-8 victory over crosstown rival Kaiser meant to the senior pitcher.

"It feels so good," said Horita of the win. "Ever since that game we've been working even harder and prepping for this game because we know how disciplined this team is."

It was the first win by the Falcons over the Cougars since March 17, 2012, a 12-7 win at Aina Haina Playground, though Kalani played Kaiser in a tight contest back on March 5, 2019, a 3-1 defeat where Horita pitched and was leadoff hitter.

"Every year we've tried so I'm so glad my senior year was finally the year," laughed Horita.

The hits came early and often for Kalani, particularly in the meat of the order, where hitters three through seven in the order each collected at least two hits, a run and an RBI. As a team, eight of nine starters hit safely as well as touched home plate for a run.

Madixx Muramoto was two for four with two runs and four RBIs, and Horita helped her own cause with a two for three day at the plate with a double, three runs and three RBIs scored.

"It was really a team effort, and I was really glad I was able to drive some in and put runs on the board," said Horita.

Kalani's early 5-0 lead after two innings was erased completely in the fourth, where Kaiser broke out the bats for six runs on five hits, capped off by a Shea Higa single that scored both the tying and go ahead runs.

The response by the Falcons was both immediate and equal, racking up six runs of their own on four hits.

From there, Kalani benefitted from solid fielding and steady work on the mound from Horita, who went the distance, allowing eight runs on seven hits. She struck out four and walked four.

"I trust my defense, so I really don't try to strikeout batters," remarked Horita. "I know if I can throw strikes, our fielders will help get the outs we need."

Next up for Kalani is a big test against Moanalua on Apr 14, followed by its final regular season home game against Roosevelt two days later.