On Friday, October 12, the McKinley Tigers beat the Waipahu Marauders in the OIA Red Playoff, First Round Game.

The Tigers, riding off the momentum of their last win, came into the game with strength and energy. They created a 30 to 7 lead by the second half. It was a hard-fought game with a minor blow to the head to McKinley wide receiver, Kaipono Kini and a few injuries to Waipahu’s  #83.

A few possible MVP’s had to be Tyrell Tuiasosopo and Gerime Bradley for their picks and scores that gave the team their lead. Great defensive work was displayed also by Kaiwi Pemberton and Mathias Tuitele-Iafeta.

In the end the Tigers brought home the victory with 36-15. McKinley was in the playoffs last year but they were stopped by the Campbell Sabers in the first game.

“I believe we are a stronger and more disciplined team than we were last year,” said Coach Ray Sayers. Sayers said that the McKinley Tigers are now familiar  with the Sabers and plan to ride this momentum into the game against Campbell on Oct. 18.

Both Tuiasosopo and Bradley said it was redemption time. Both Tigers remember getting stopped in the playoffs by the Sabers and now plan to bring home the win this time around against them.

(Check The Pinion’s Instagram feed and Facebook page for interviews with Tyrell Tuiasosopo and Gerime Bradley)