They’re only 11-year-olds, but considering their postseason pedigree, Shon Malani was disappointed the Hilo All-Stars didn’t show up with more of a sense of urgency to meet the grander stage.
That they eventually showed a spark was encouraging to their coach, but it came too late Thursday to make a difference at the PONY League Bronco 11s West regional in a 9-6 loss to San Francisco in Walnut, Calif.
“I thought we’d play with more fight,” Malani said. “This group has been through a lot.”
Which means Hilo is used to playing with its backs against the wall.