Hilo ends homestead with loss to Konawaena

Hilo HS’s football team suffered a 47-0 loss to Konawaena HS on Friday night during the final game of its four-game homestead at Wong Stadium.

Now 6-1 overall and 5-0 in BIIF DI play this season, this was the Wildcats’ 20th straight BIIF DI victory (including the 2021 and 2022 seasons).

Konawaena’s quarterback Keoki Alani and receiver Abraham Ogata teamed up to do major damage — connecting for five touchdown passes. Alani threw for 376 yards (25-35, 77.14%), six touchdowns and two interceptions — as Ogata racked up 150 yards and five touchdowns on just eight receptions. Zed Anahu-Ambrosio trailed with 131 yards and a touchdown on 12 receptions.

During the fourth quarter, Aliimalu Tan got a five-yard pick-six for Konawaena’s final touchdown.

Nakoa Ige completed five of seven PAT kick attempts.

Despite the loss, Hilo was not without its highlights. The Vikings made multiple redzone drives, caused turnovers and allowed the Wildcats less touchdowns than in any other BIIF outing this season.

Konawaena has three BIIF outings remaining — the next being at home on Friday against Waiakea HS, the Wildcats’ final home game. The following Friday, they will play at Kea‘au. Koanwaena’s final regular season game will be Thursday, Oct. 19 at Kealakehe HS.

The Vikings will face an important test at their next outing — playing away Oct. 5 at Kea‘au HS (5 p.m. kickoff). During Hilo and Kea‘au’s last matchup, the Vikings overcame a deficit to defeat the Cougars 29-22. The outcome of this game will likely determine who will finish the season with the No. 2 ranking in BIIF DI.

All of the Vikings’ remaining games will be on the road, though their season finale Oct. 21 will be just across town at Waiakea HS.