Eel! Avatiu crowned champion

In a thrilling 80 minutes of action that kept fans on the edge of their seats, the Awatiu Eels prevailed over the Tupapa Panthers to win the 2024 Rarotonga Club 15-a-side Premiership title with a hard-fought 32-27 victory at Teimurimotia Park in Titikaveka on Saturday. By Solomone Taukei.

As expected, the intense match was full of drama and featured outstanding performances from both teams.

From the outset, it was clear that this encounter would be a battle between giants.

The Eels struck first, with defender Nathan Nabou opening the scoring in the third minute of the match, before Viiga Reupena followed up with a shot on goal.

However, the Panthers responded quickly, showing their resilience and tactical strength.^day
Minutes later, they took the lead through tries from centre-back Jason Potoru and midfielder Al Momoisea, with Daniel Toa also contributing on the goal.

As the first half wore on, the Panthers extended their lead to 15-7 on Toa’s free throws.

But the Eels were not to be outdone and with a touchdown from Ioane Moore and a brilliant 50-metre groundstroke from Reupena, the score was tied at 15-15 at half-time.

In the second half, the Eels showed renewed determination. Nabb scored for the second time, and Rupena’s accurate shot added an extra point. Substitute winger Josh Koroy also scored, pushing the Eels’ lead to 29-15.

Despite the Eels’ growing lead, the Panthers continued to fight back. Al Momoisea scored another point and with Toa’s score, the gap was reduced to 29-22.

In the final moments of the game, with two players sent off and the Eels down to 13 men, the Panthers sensed an opportunity. Pita Senibiakula crossed the goal line for the Panthers’ fourth try, but it was too little too late.

Earlier, Rupena scored a crucial penalty kick from 35 metres out to give the Eels a slim lead, which they held on to, eventually winning the match 32-27.

Reflecting on the match, Eels coach Clive Nicholas expressed his pride and gratitude.

“I’m honored by this win because I know we’ve been through a lot throughout the season,” Nicholas said. “I’m grateful to everyone – the players, management, the village of Awatiu, and all the supporters and sponsors who have stood by us and never left us alone.”

Despite the loss, the Panthers put in an impressive performance. They dominated set-piece scrums and throw-ins, especially in the second half when there was a strong wind at their backs. However, they missed two key throw-in penalty scoring opportunities, which they regretted.

Standout performers for the Panthers included skilled No.8 Philimoni “Pilsen” Letia Vula, powerful forward Filippo Schmidt and strong front rowers Luatua and Kananga. Almo Moisia also stood out with his dynamic performance, scoring two touchdowns.

For the Eels, the standouts were top five and eight goalkeeper Viiga Reupena, shooting guard Nathan Nabou and energetic forwards captain Li Ponini, Wally Tangata and Josh Motu, who gave it their all.

CIRU Development Manager Ben Koteka expressed his gratitude to everyone involved in making the 2024 season a success.

“Firstly, thank God for blessing us with such a fantastic tournament and weather. Thank you to Titikaveka Rugby Club for hosting this year’s Grand Final, and to our sponsors Vodafone, Avarua Bakery and Koka Lagoon Cruises. A big thank you to all the clubs, players, coaches, managers, administrators and volunteers who make our club run smoothly every week. Special thanks to our match officials, U18 Maine Tueporo stewards, TJ assistants, ball boys, medical staff and all spectators. God bless you all, on behalf of the CIRU Executive Officer.”