Konawaena capitalized on its opportunities and downed Kealakehe 3-1 in a Big Island Interscholastic Federation game Friday night at Waverider Stadium.
Both teams came in riding momentum from season-opening victories. Konawaena (2-0) downed Kohala 9-0 earlier in the week, while Kealakehe (1-1) managed to get past Hilo 3-2. But Friday was a different story, as the crosstown rivals came hungry for an early-season statement win.
Mikala Fernandez got the Wildcats on the board first with a solid strike on a free kick that snuck by Kealakehe keeper Nika Paogofie-Buyten at the 14th-minute mark.
Kiana Fudala had the Waveriders’ best chance to score early, sneaking past the defense and ringing a shot off the post.
As halftime neared, Hiilawe Manoi responded for Kealakehe with her second goal of the season, bullying through defenders and tying the game at 1-all.
The tie did not last long. Nalani Wall scored with just 22 seconds left in the half to give Konawaena the advantage going into the break.
The Wildcats rode the momentum from the late goal in the first half to a fast start in the second. Jashea Leleiwi found the ball in traffic and scored in the 41st minute to give the Wildcats a 3-1 lead.
The two-goal cushion would be enough for the defending BIIF champion Wildcats to sit back, defend and rely on goalkeeper Taiana Tolleson. The returning All-BIIF first-team selection turned away Kealakehe’s late chances, and the Wildcats walked out of the stadium with the victory.
Konawaena plays Honokaa on Tuesday, while Kealakehe hopes to bounce back Wednesday against Keaau.