Mililani Edging Ahead In Central’s OIA Boys Soccer Ranks

The OIA boys soccer season has reached the midpoint of the 2015 season, prompting Central Oahu Islander to look at playoff prospects for Leilehua, Mililani and Waialua high schools.

Leilehua Mules

Record: 1-3-1

Key wins: over Aiea 4-0 Dec. 12 away

Must-see game ahead: at Mililani Jan. 23

Mules at mid-season: Despite a tough start, the team’s remaining games give them a chance to have an impact in the West race. It will close out its season with consecutive games against Kapolei at home Jan. 20 and Mililani away

Jan. 23. The Mules will look to get back on track offensively in the second half of its West slate, since they were shut out in three of their first four games. The most recent outing was encouraging, as they tied Waipahu 1-1 last Wednesday.

Mililani Trojans

Record: 5-1 Key wins: over Radford 4-0 Dec. 19

Must-see game ahead: at Pearl City Jan. 20

Trojans at mid-season: The Trojans already look in post-season form after impressive showings against Waianae 5-0, Nanakuli 7-0, Radford 4-0, Waianae 4-0 and Waipahu 11-0. The Trojans outscored their first five opponents 31-0. Although a 1-0 road loss to Kapolei last week undermined momentum a bit, Mililani still finds itself in a solid position to win the West and secure the top seed for the upcoming OIA Division I tournament.

Kalahikiola Judd’s eight goals in six games placed him first in scoring in the West, heading into last weekend’s action. Waialua Bulldogs

Record: 2-3

Key wins: over Waipahu 2-1 Dec. 12, over Waianae 2-0 Jan. 6

Must-see game ahead: versus Nanakuli at home Jan. 20

Bulldogs at mid-season: Waialua fared much better on the field in the first half of the season than the record shows, as its slate was among the league’s toughest, with consecutive games against DI powers Kapolei, Campbell and Mililani. While Waialua lost all three, it still can be a factor in DII when they get to the post-season. The Waipahu win was huge for playoff positioning, as it was a head-to-head matchup of West DII teams. The outcome of the Bulldogs’ upcoming games with DII Leilehua and Nanakuli will also figure big in their post-season hopes. The Waianae win was the team’s best effort yet, as they shut down the Seariders. jackster.1969@yahoo.com