(Fri) September 5, 2008

ILH FOOTBALL: Iolani defeats Damien, 27-21 in a hard-fought ILH football game

Last week the Raider offense struggled at times, while the defense kept a huge Kaimuki team mostly off the board. This week the size of the players seemed more even as the Monarchs also looked quick but small. I was looking for a competitive, close and fun game.

This week the Raider offense was clicking. Jarrett Arakawa, at QB, was 19 for 29 for a total of 302 yards as he looked more comfortable and on target.

Kela Marciel had another big game, catching 4 passes, getting at least another interception and generally made life miserable for the Monarchs whenever they went his way.

Kellen Imada had a big day running the ball gaining 97 yards on 22 carries.

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Photos and recap by Alan Linsky at www.coach-photos.com for HHSAA

My game ball, though, goes to Brandon Ball who caught 5 passes for 119 yards. Not only were they great plays but it seemed that they came at really important times.

The Raiders went ahead 21-0 scoring 2 touchdowns in the first quarter and one more in the second quarter.

But, the Monarchs did not let up and started to play better in the second half. 21-7, then 27-7 in the fourth quarter. The Monarchs did not allow the Raiders faithful to relax, though, as they mounted a charge. First a 35 yard pass by quarterback Anthony Tuitele to Marcus Kaanoi and then a 1 yard punch in by Tuitele. It was now 27-21 with the Raiders at fourth down with 51 seconds left. Arakawa made a nice fake and drew Damien offsides. Heady play that wrapped up the game!