Campbell Sabers get back on track with blowout win over Moanalua, 56-7

For the second straight game of the season, the reigning Open Division state champions found themselves facing an early deficit.

The response was different this time around.

Charlesten Salazar’s 96-yard kickoff return sparked a string of 59 unanswered points as Campbell cruised to a 56-7 road win over Moanalua Friday night.

“I have been playing this game of football since I was three and I have learned that momentum plays a big part in this game,” said Salazar.

“Our special teams are dawgs and they are hungry. They all executed their blocks and I was able to take it to the end zone creating the spark we needed as a team. From then on the momentum was in our favor and we didn’t let off the gas.”

It was a much-needed response by the Sabers, who lost their season opener to Waipahu, 40-17, after going down 17-0 after the first quarter.

“This game was huge for us not only for the players, but for the coaches and the community,” Salazar said. “As many have stated, we have a big target on our backs and everyone will try to play their best to beat us.”

Quarterback Jalen Kimble was efficient in his first-ever varsity start, completing 12 of 14 passes for 175 yards and four touchdowns, two of which went to receiver Shaison Kupukaa.

“We have an arsenal of quarterbacks on our roster — Jalen is a pocket passer who is not afraid to get hit and will drop a dime doing so,” Salazar said of Kimble. “He took charge and led the team to our first victory.”

The Sabers also added four rushing scores on the ground, led by Champ Borges’ 146 yards and two TDs on just seven carries.

Tyler Gines-Hufana scored on a 1-yard TD run midway through the opening period to give Na Menehune an early 7-0 lead before Salazar returned the ensuing kickoff for a score.

Campbell (1-1) gained 447 yards of total offense in the win while holding Moanalua (1-1) to just 96 yards.

The Campbell Sabers celebrate a big play against the Moanalua Na Menehune in a football game. | Photo: CJ Caraang

Campbell DE Myikca Alston celebrates after making a stop against Moanalua. | Photo: CJ Caraang