Warriors beat Spartans 4-0 to top off Senior Night
Photo by Kainoa Deguilmo
Nainoa Silva sprints after the ball in the February 3 boys soccer game against the Seabury Hall Spartans. The Maui Warriors won, 4-0, on their home turf and on their senior night.
The Warriors won their last home game for the regular season last night against the Seabury Spartans 4-0. Micah Alo scored twice, while Jake Mateaki and Nainoa Silva scored once each.
The Warriors came out strong and ready for anything.
“We just try and prepare in practice,” Coach Kyle Herendeen said, “so that when it’s game time, we’re ready to go.”
The defense played hard, barely allowing the Spartans in Warrior territory.
“Our defense is really difficult,” Coach Herendeen said. “When we focus, we become really difficult.”
For the last regular season game, the Warriors will play Lahainaluna at War Memorial Stadium this Friday, February 6, with the state championships next on the schedule.
“We just have to keep improving,” Coach Herendeen said, “no matter what the situation is or the score.”
Senior Micah Alo, who played his last regular season game at home, scored once in the first half and once in the second.
“I just thank God for those goals,” he said. “I also thank the people who assisted me and those who worked hard tonight.”
The Warriors, who have already clinched the Maui Interscholastic League regular season title with a record of 7 wins, 2 ties and no losses, are looking forward to their final game against Lahaina.
“We just have to work hard, and keep working on finishing,” Alo said. “I love my [team] boys,” he said. “Let’s win states.”
Alo has been an excellent ball handler this season. Known for his quick bursts and fancy footwork, he also fights for position and possession. In fact, in one of those battles in last night’s matchup, he lost half of one of his front teeth when he took an elbow to the jaw.
Seabury played intensely despite the scoring difference, bringing a fast game in the second half.
“We’re getting better and showing improvement,” said Seabury head coach John Guarin.
Despite the loss, Coach Guarin sees potential.
“We will continue to build,” he said. “We’re losing four seniors, but the young guys tonight showed promise.”
