WAIPAHU, Hawai'i — Hawai'i Pacific wrapped up its 2025 campaign with a spirited performance at Waipi'o Peninsula Soccer Stadium on Saturday evening, showing resilience, energy, and second-half urgency in a 3–0 decision against Hawai'i Hilo.
Freshman goalkeeper
Oliver Holt was a steady presence throughout the full 90 minutes, collecting five saves, including several in tight traffic, to keep the Sharks within striking distance.
On the attacking end, HPU created a wave of second-half chances.
Kelly Takara sparked the Sharks' push with three shots on target, including a dangerous look in the 75th minute that forced another diving save.
Olle Ridelius added consistent pressure on the left side and nearly converted early in the second half with a shot just wide.
Midfielder
Paul Norberg put another strong opportunity on frame in the 69th minute, helping fuel a stretch where HPU earned back-to-back corners and held momentum in the attacking third.
Defensively, Sam Irsfeld,
Trey Gora, and
Jackson Palladino anchored a back line that absorbed heavy pressure but continued to win key tackles and help transition the Sharks into the counterattack.
Gora's late yellow card also reflected the squad's refusal to concede space down the stretch.
The Sharks' substitutes also brought immediate energy—
Yony Avelar nearly scored moments after entering the match, and
Sye Sandobal fired a dangerous shot in the 86th minute that required a strong save.
While Hilo capitalized on their chances, the Sharks' effort, depth, and perseverance were evident across the full 90 minutes. HPU showed renewed cohesion, created high-quality looks after halftime, and fought through a physical match with 17 team fouls drawn.
The Sharks close the season with a strong foundation of underclassmen contributors, emerging attacking threats, and the type of second-half intensity that will carry directly into next year.