Kailua earned its first win of the season with a 33-30 triumph over Leilehua, highlighted by Rusty Whitlock’s game-clinching interception. The victory ended a three-game losing streak for the Surfriders, which included losses to two Hawaii teams and a high-scoring matchup in Las Vegas.

Quarterback Romeo Ortiz played a key role, throwing for 90 yards and a touchdown while rushing for 89 yards, including a pivotal 29-yard run on Kailua’s final scoring drive. The Surfriders extended their lead to 27-7 early in the third quarter when Benjamin Honebein returned an interception for a touchdown.

Leilehua mounted a comeback behind quarterback Bennett Strobel, who passed for 292 yards and four touchdowns, and running back Cameron Keeve, who ran for 149 yards. Despite Leilehua’s late rally, Kailua’s defense, anchored by Dougie Kalama and Honebein, held firm to secure the win.

On defense, Leilehua was led by Gabriel Liua with a game-high 11 tackles.

Photos: Lori McKeown

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