Iolani's Taybr Alexio and Punahou's Dalen Lau battles for possession in the second half. Michael Lasquero | SL

×

_22011911_GSOC_1_18_22_IOLatPUN-4230.jpg - Michael Lasquero | SL

Purchase this image
4x5 5x7 8x10 image download

MAKIKI — Iolani and host Punahou played to a 1-1 tie in an ILH girls soccer match at Alexander Field Tuesday afternoon.

The Buffanblu (1-0-1) struck first in the ninth minute on Carly Cormack's goal in the box, which was set up by a cross by Xevani Salanoa from the right side.

The Raiders (1-1-1) tied things up in the 33rd minute when Ava Watanabe won possession of a long pass along the left seam. After she dribbled it inside, she found Abigail Hironaka in front of the goal area for the equalizer.

Iolani coach Kristin Masunaga was proud of how her team fought back after giving up the early score.

"Tremendous effort. Being down a goal and tying it up, and I think we had a lot of chances (to score later). They hustled, played hard, couldn't ask for more. Just got to finish our opportunities.

It was the Raiders' first match since dropping a 2-0 contest to Kamehameha last Thursday.

Masunaga said that her team improved on connecting on their passes since their last contest.

"I think we tried to possess the ball more, tried to find feet instead of just kicking it. We have like three or four varsity players (that played two years ago), so it was their first time playing against a Punahou or a Kamehameha so hopefully we got those jitters out so come second round we can finish our opportunities."

The Buffanblu on the other hand, were playing in their first big match of the year, and just their second of the season.

"We're still trying to figure it out with preseason over a month ago," said Punahou coach Shelley Izuno. "I like our work ethic, and every single player never quits. We definitely have things that we need to clean up, and I know we can do better. We have a young team so this is their first time against like an Iolani, but as coaches know that Iolani is always a tough game no matter what."

Majority of Punahou's goal opportunities against Iolani were a result of its players getting past the defense downfield.

"We have a ton of speed, everywhere on the field, especially up top," said Izuno. "One of their strengths is that they have that hunger and passion to get that goal."

Iolani keeper Ayanah Soon did her part in keeping Punahou's athletes at bay, with a handful of saves in the second half. Izuno also spoke highly of the play of Iolani center back Lindsey Nihei.

"Their center back is a really smart player," Izuno said.

The two teams will face off again on Monday, Feb. 7 in the second round of the ILH season.