It was back to work for the University of Hawai'i football team yesterday.

The Warriors (5-5, 4-3 Western Athletic Conference) began their preparation for Saturday's WAC game against Idaho (2-9, 1-6 WAC) yesterday afternoon following an eventful change of plans.

It was the first time the team held practice on UH's lower-campus grass field in nearly three weeks since leaving for a 10-day road trip for games against Utah State and New Mexico State. The Warriors had light workouts in lieu of practices last week because of the bye and Tuesday's scheduled two-hour practice was shelved for sprints and weight-lifting because rain soaked the grass fields, and UH head coach Greg McMackin "didn't want to tear up the grass."

Even yesterday's plans were in limbo because of more rain. The Warriors searched for alternate practice sites, including Roosevelt's Ticky Vasconcellos Stadium and Aloha Stadium, but when the afternoon weather cleared up, it was decided they would practice at UH after all.

"It feels good to be back out here," quarterback Greg Alexander said. "We've had stuff switching around all season so it's something that we've got to deal with and just go out and get our work done."

Linebacker Adam Leonard said the team won't let the schedule changes affect them.

"It's kind of a switch-up for (yesterday), but we got some good work in and we're ready to get back into it and finish off strong."

UH will have to win two of its final three games to qualify for the Sheraton Hawai'i Bowl on Dec. 24.

The Warriors are coming off their best offensive performance of the year in a Nov. 8 win (42-30) at New Mexico State. They put up 447 yards of offense and 42 points, both season highs. But the Vandals' offense, which averages just over 330 yards per game, still managed to tally 329 yards in a 45-10 loss to Boise State Saturday.

"They've moved the ball on everybody they've played," Leonard said. "For us defensive guys, this will be a big challenge. We still haven't played a complete game this whole year."

Leonard hopes the game will set the tone for the Warriors' home stretch.

"This is one of those games that's going to get us ready for the end of our season and I'm real confident in our team that we can finish strong and win the rest of our games," Leonard said.

NOTES

"E-Rob" hurting: Strong safety Erik "E-Rob" Robinson injured his right hamstring on the first play of 7-on-7 drills yesterday. He did not return to practice. If Robinson is unable to play, Desmond Thomas will start in his place.

Military discounts: Active, reservists and retired military personnel will receive a 50 percent discount on up to eight tickets for Saturday's game. Valid military ID must be presented at the time of purchase.

Today's practice session: The Warriors will practice from 7 to 9 a.m. today at Saint Louis School's field.