Hawaii falls to New Mexico, 28-21

The Rainbow Warriors lost their second straight MWC home game, falling 28-21 to New Mexico. The Hawaii defense was unable to contain Tyrone Owens, who rushed for 134 yards and a touchdown on 12 carries.

The Lobos jumped out to a 14-0 lead in the first quarter, with Richard McQuarley scoring first on a 1 yard touchdown run. Teriyon Gipson capped of a 75 yard drive in the closing second of the first quarter with an 11-yard touchdown run.

Hawaii responded in the second quarter, putting up two touchdowns while holding the Lobos scoreless. Dru Brown rushed 6 yards for the touchdowns to get the ‘Bows on the board. At the end of the second quarter, Ikaika Woolsey ran in form 2 yards out on a fake field goal, tying the game 14-14 at halftime.

The lone touchdown in third quarter belonged to New Mexico, Tyrone Owens shredded the Hawaii defense and scored on a 72-yard touchdown run.

After that, Hawaii was set up with great field position on a good kick return, helped by a facemask penalty by the Lobos. Steven Lakalaka capped off the 56 \-yard drive with a 4-yard touchdown run, tying the game at 21-21 in the fourth quarter.

The Lobos defense forced a fumble from Dicoemy Saint Juste that was returned 46 yards by Lee Crosby for a New Mexico touchdown.

The ‘Bows got another good return from Paul Harris, bringing the ball out to the 47-yard line to start the drive. On 13 plays, Hawaii was able to drive deep into Lobos territory, but Lakalaka was stopped for no gain on a 4th and 1 form the New Mexico 7 yard line.

After the turnover on downs, the Lobos were able to run out the clock and hand the Warriors the 28-21 loss in Honolulu. Dru Brown finished 16 of 28 for 173 yards and a rushing touchdown, while Dicoemy Saint Juste was leading rusher with 77 yards on 17 carries. Steven Lakalaka carried the nine times for 29 yards and a touchdown.

The Rainbow Warriors travel to California for their next game to face San Diego State on Saturday, November 5th.