HILO – By definition, Hilo High conquered all of the islands last season in capturing the HHSAA Division I championship.
It could be argued, however, that the Vikings couldn’t lay claim to being the best football team on the Big Island.
Until now.
Hilo left no question Friday night in a cross-divisional battle of BIIF dynasties, shutting out Konawaena 25-0. Kyan Miyasato overcame a slow start and generated just enough big plays, throwing for two touchdowns, to back a smothering defensive effort at Wong Stadium, securing home-field advantage for the Vikings in the league championship game.
The Viks (6-0) will host Kealakehe in two weeks in search of their sixth title in row. Meanwhile, a second consecutive loss for the Wildcats (4-2) means Kamehameha can secure a home game against Konawaena in the Division II title game (Oct. 27 or 28) with a win Saturday at home against Waiakea.
Kaleo Ramos found tough sledding at times but ran for 93 yards and a score for the Vikings, who won their 10th league game in row since stubbing their toes last September against Konawaena, who went on to lose to Lahainaluna in a seven-OT thriller in the state D-II final.
If Friday night was any indication, Konawaena will have to continue to rely on its sturdy defense to lead the way as it vies for a seventh BIIF title in eight seasons.
Saddled with horrible field possession for much of the first half, the Wildcats’ eight possession mustered just 39 yards, and they failed to take advantage of two turnovers. They had just 74 yards for the game as Hilo stifled Kona’s short passing game. Freshman quarterback Sheynen Nahale was 12 of 30 for 51 yards and was intercepted twice (Kahiau Walker and Kainalu Lewis).
Neither quarterbacks’ numbers were sparkling.
Miyasato was 13 of 35 for 195 yards, with touchdown tosses of 24 yards to Fiki Aguiar and 11 to Guyson Ogata with an interception (Kaha’i Navas-Loa).
Elijah Apao returned the opening kickoff 58 yards, and though Hilo couldn’t capitalize on the drive, it pinned the Wildcats deep in their territory, setting a tone for the half, which featured a field heavily tilted in the Viks’ favor.
Miyasato misfired on 10 of his first 11 passes as Hilo posted only one first down on its first four possessions, all of which started near midfield or in Konawaena territory.
But Vikings receivers started to get behind Konawaena’s defense after Hilo blocked a Harry Hill punt out of the back of the end zone for a 2-0 lead. Apao set Hilo’s first scoring drive in motion with a 29-yard return off Hill’s free kick.
Kalae Akui did everything but catch touchdowns, with five receptions for 98 yards, and Ogata had five grabs as well.
Trying to avoid a rare shutout, Cyrus Jumalon recovered a blocked punt deep in Hilo territory in the second half, but the Vikings’ held, tacking on a defensive safety.
Hilo’s dynasty shined brightest Friday night.
Konawaena 0 0 0 0 – 0
Hilo 9 7 9 0 – 25