Punahou claims title with 1-0 victory over Mililani

By Wes Nakama
Advertiser Staff Writer

Sophomore Rachael Lau scored the only goal of the game to lead Punahou past Mililani last night on Maui. Maui News via AP

Sophomore Rachael Lau knocked in a short goal in the 21st minute in front of a crowded net for the game's only score, giving the Buffanblu (12-0-1) their first state title since 1998. Punahou won four straight championships from 1983-86, but had only one crown since then.

"I've been coaching since 1981, and this was just an unbelievable team," said Buffanblu coach Jorge Barbosa, who had a daughter playing on the 1998 title squad. "Before the game, they told me, 'Coach, we're gonna be organized out there.' They knew what they had to do, and they executed so well. I'm so happy for them."

To finally claim victory last night, however, No. 2 seed Punahou had to withstand a second-half barrage by No. 1 seed and defending champ Mililani (14-1-1). The Trojans out-shot Punahou 6-1 in the final 40 minutes, and came within a couple feet of scoring twice.

In the 55th minute, Nicky Harris' line drive free kick was bobbled by Buffanblu goalkeeper Ali Lipsher before Lipsher secured it at the line. Lipsher made a similar save on a header in the 65th minute. In fact, Lipsher made five of her six saves in the second half.

"I knew I was near the line, so that made me a little more anxious," said Lipsher of the two close calls. "Those were mistakes by me, but luckily I recovered."

The second half was a reversal of the first 40 minutes, when Punahou out-shot Mililani 5-2.

Lau's goal came after Ashley Collins' throw-in deflected off two players and ended up in the goal box near the front post.

"We usually try to get headers off AC's throw-ins," said Lau, who was back in the hotel during Thursday's quarterfinals nursing a 102-degree fever. "It was just our luck that the ball came back right in front of me."

Mililani coach James Uson said the difference in halves was partly wind-related.

"Even though it's a little wind, it is a factor," Uson said. "It helped whatever team had it behind them."

The Trojans took advantage of the second-half wind to get their opportunities, only to be thwarted by Lipsher.

"I think those (two shots) probably would have gone in against another keeper," Uson said. "But I'm proud of how our girls played. They were sick and injured, but we had some gutsy performances."

PUNAHOU 1 0 — 1
MILILANI 0 0 — 0

Scoring: Rachael Lau unassisted, 21st. Saves: Ali Lipsher (Pun) 6; Eryn Kishimoto (Mil) 3.

Baldwin 3, Kalaheo 2: Christie Trenholme scored the deciding goal, breaking a 2-2 tie, at 54:23 in the second half as the Bears defeated the Mustangs to capture fifth place yesterday.

In the first half, Baldwin (14-1) scored on goals by Taryn Apo (6:30) and Kami Kapaku (39:48).

Scoring both goals for Kalaheo (11-4-3) was Anela Gonzales at 7:36 and 30:36.

King Kekaulike 2, Kealakehe 1: Chandi Bickford scored both goals and King Kekaulike held off a late rally by Kealakehe to earn a victory in the consolation finals.

Bickford's goals came at 14:43 and 62:08.

Kealakehe's Lisa Franke scored at 77:35.

Pearl City 1, 'Aiea 1: The Chargers and Na Ali'i played to a tie in last night's third-place game.

'Aiea took the lead in the first half when Jodie Toyama scored at 17:03.

Pearl City tied it in the second half as Kimberly Unten converted on a penalty kick at 42:16.