In an intense battle for the HHSAA Open Division football championship, Saint Louis came out on top with a 17-10 victory over Kahuku in front of a crowd of 8,566 at the University of Hawaii’s Clarence T.C. Ching Athletics Complex. This win marks Saint Louis’ first state title since 2019, completing their season at 9-3 overall under the guidance of head coach Tupu Alualu.
The game remained a defensive struggle in the first quarter until Saint Louis scored a 1-yard rushing touchdown by Titan Lacaden just before halftime. Kahuku quickly responded with a 34-yard reception by Mana Carvalho. However, Saint Louis took the lead again in the third quarter with another Lacaden touchdown.
The Crusaders extended their lead with a field goal, and although Kahuku managed a field goal of their own, they were unable to make a comeback as Saint Louis held on for the win. Lacaden’s impressive performance, rushing for 155 yards and scoring two touchdowns, contributed significantly to the Crusaders’ victory.
This game was a showdown between two powerhouse high school football teams in Hawaii, with both Saint Louis and Kahuku being the only winners of the HHSAA Open Division since 2016. With the Crusaders reclaiming the championship title, fans are already looking forward to the upcoming season and the fierce competition that lies ahead.
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