It’s warm. It’s muggy. No breeze.
For the Kapolei Hurricanes, it’s no big deal. This is their home turf. They embrace the humidity and sweltering conditions. But I think the visiting Mililani Trojans and their explosive offense won’t mind one bit. By 6 p.m. (or so) kickoff, the temperature will cool a bit.
Can Kapolei (0-2, 0-2 OIA) pull off an upset? Sure. The bigger question is, can the ‘Canes maneuver into the playoffs with the best seeding possible? Mililani (3-0, 2-0 OIA) hasn’t been slowed by any defense, but Kapolei’s ground attack could prove that the best defense is a patient, run-first offense.
6:53 p.m.
This kickoff has been pushed way back. Game would’ve started around 6:25 p.m., but OC Sports is here testing out some new technology. It allows them to broadcast a game without having the big trailer on the premises. So that means this game won’t start until after 7 p.m. We’re almost there.
First quarter
The Trojans score on their second drive, a 13-yard toss from McKenzie Milton to Bronson Ramos. MIL 7, KPO 0, 4:31.
After punter Alton Julius dropped the snap and was sacked by three Trojans, Milton immediately went to Bryson Ventura fpr a 25-yard TD pass. MIL 14, KPO 0, 1:59.
Second quarter
Mililani needed just three plays to go 75 yards. Vavae Malepeai finally strikes with a man-child, powerful 47-yard TD run. MIL 21, KPO 0, 10:50.
‘Canes on the board. Julius is throwing almost every down and they roar downfield. Naliko Kea hauls in a 19-yard TD pass from Julius. MIL 21, KPO 7, 8:34.
Milton scores on a 1-yard keeper moments after a fumble by Malepeai was ruled down (before the fumble). MIL 28, KPO 7, 1:25.
Third quarter
Malepeai caps another long Trojans drive with a 1-yard run for a touchdown, his second of the game. MIL 35, KPO 7, 6:43.
The Hurricanes drove 65 yards in 11 plays, scoring on Julius’ 20-yard, fourth-down throw to Kekua Marumoto. MIL 35, KPO 14, 1:33.
Fourth quarter
The Trojan march downfield with ease. Milton’s 10-yard pass to Luani Matagiese makes it a 27-point lead. MIL 41, KPO 14, 11:34.
Final: Mililani 41, Kapolei 14.
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