Waialua rallies as they pass Kalani to gain the division II OIA crown. Greg Yamamoto | SL

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020115_WaiKal_0504.jpg - Greg Yamamoto | SL

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KANEOHE - Cierra-Lynn Ramirez scored the only goal of the game in the 72nd minute to lead Waialua over Kalani, 1-0, for the Oahu Interscholastic Association Division I girls' soccer championship at Castle stadium.

It was Waialua's first league championship. The Bulldogs made the title game in 2008, but lost to Roosevelt, 5-0.

"Actually, this is my first time at Waialua, so I'm really stoked because Waialua hasn't won anything in seven years," said Ramirez, a transfer from Mililani. "I'm glad we're making history."

Although the Bulldogs dominated the second half in terms of possession on their side of the field and attempt shots, but struggled to score against the Falcons. Waialua had 13 shots on goal in the second half to Kalani's 3. Kalani goalkeeper Heather Mar registered six saves.

"We had to score because we didn't want to go to golden goal, overtime," Ramirez said. "I guess we just played as a team and made it."

Ramirez threatened to score twice before her game-winning shot. But one shot was saved by Mar and the other was wide left.

"I was super scared because I thought I was going to miss," Ramirez said of her goal, which was from about 10 yards out. "I scored and my heart just dropped."

Added Waialua coach Tim Kawahakui: "We told her don't play with (the ball) too much. Just shoot and finally she got one in."

Kalani labored against Waialua's net, managing only eight shots on goal the entire game.

This was a major turnaround for the Bulldogs, who were 0-10 last season.

"Especially from last year, we we're 0-10," Kawahakui said. "But these girls picked it up and I'm glad for them."

Kawakakui said he picked up some coaches from Kahuku's staff from last year.

"Addition of these Kahuku coaches, they really helped us," Kawahakui said.