West Kaua‘i, Solid Steel tie in opener

LIHU‘E — West Kaua‘i and Solid Steel battled to a 9-9 tie, and the Hanamaulu Hillsiders scraped up three runs more than Kuku’s Aces for an 18-15 win, Saturday at the Hanapepe field during the season opening Kaua‘i Senior Softball games.

The Aloha Kia Lihu‘e A’s, playing without the advantage of its player-coach, demonstrated its power with a 20-3 win over the Kaua‘i Islanders whose Joe Bertucci did double-duty by keeping an eye open for players and spectators being mindful of the COVID-19 rules that blanketed the league.

The ‘Ohana Rebels and Keonimana Gents were also winners at the Hanapepe field, one of two being used for the season opener that was void of any opening ceremonies. Da Kruzers and Kawaihau posted wins at the Isenberg field.

League play continues Saturday at the Kaumakani and Hanamaulu fields.

At 9 a.m., the Barteks take on the Rookies at Kaumakani. Kuku’s Aces tangles with Da Kruzers starting at 10:10 a.m., and the Keonimana Gents take on West Kaua‘i starting at 11:30 a.m. The EK Legend goes up against Kawaihau to close the day starting at 12:46 p.m.

At the Hanamaulu field, Solid Steep opens against the Aloha Kia Lihu‘e A’s at 9 a.m. followed by ‘Ohana looking for a win against the Kaua‘i Islanders at 10:15 a.m. Da Killas debut in the season when they face the Hanamaulu Hillsiders in the finale starting at 11:30 a.m. The ‘Ohana Rebels draws the bye in the 15-team league.

Jan. 9 Results

Hanapepe field

Ohana Rebels 18-11 Barteks

Rookies 20-8 Keonimana Gents

West Kaua‘i 9-9 Solid Steel

Hanamaulu Hillsiders 18-15 Kuku’s Aces

Isenberg Park

Da Kruzers 16-3 EK Legend

Kawaihau 22-4 ‘Ohana

Aloha Kia Lihu‘e A’s 20-3 Islanders