Leilehua is one win away from making history.
Cali Moniz-Kealoha accounted for two touchdowns and Madi Powell sealed the game with a late interception to lift the Mules past Punahou, 18-12, in Friday’s semifinal of the inaugural HHSAA/Hawaii Dental Service Girls Flag Football State Championships.
With the win, Leilehua (10-2) advances to the title game against Campbell at 7:30 p.m. Saturday at Mililani’s John Kauinana Stadium.
Moniz-Kealoha threw for 116 yards and a touchdown and added a rushing score. Her 3-yard run in the second quarter gave the Mules a 12-6 lead after a trick-play touchdown pass from Powell to Maci Rivera tied the game earlier. Moniz-Kealoha later connected with Aulii Coelho for the go-ahead score early in the fourth.
Punahou (9-3) struck quickly twice—once on a 40-yard run by Maryah Puletasi and again on a 61-yard pass to Halia Hoapili—but Leilehua’s defense tightened down the stretch. Moniz-Kealoha came up with an interception in the red zone and Powell followed with another pick to end Punahou’s final drive.
Powell had a standout night, recording six flag pulls, two pass breakups, and eight catches for 78 yards. She also made a clutch 14-yard run to keep a late drive alive.
Minei Haiola-Borges added a pair of sacks as the Mules held Punahou to 208 total yards, with Puletasi completing just 9-of-22 passes.
Leilehua now prepares for its first-ever matchup against Campbell, who blanked Mililani 14-0 in the other semifinal.
Earlier Saturday, Waianae meets Waimea at 3 p.m. for the consolation title, followed by Kamehameha vs. Moanalua at 4:30 p.m. Punahou and Mililani play for third at 6 p.m.
Photos: Lori McKeown
