R2 expects fierce competition

This weekend promises to be an exciting clash as the second round of Rarotonga Football 2024 kicks off, with Awatiu taking on Puaikura at Aretere Park, while Nikausokatake take on Matavella-Ngatangia at the CIFA Complex.

The Super Men’s home game will take place at Aretere Park at 4.20pm as Awatiu hosts Puaikura. Both teams are hungry for a second win after impressive wins in their opening game last week.

Avatiu’s young squad was dominated by U18 players, with Tione Nand and Andrew Teena standing out. Senior players Viiga Reupena and James Nand played key leadership roles in leading the team to success.

On the other side, Puakula’s defense was anchored by Jarvis Apelao, with new imports Akiona Terry and Daniel Taukia strengthening the team along with veteran player Dwayne Te Putoa. The combination of senior players’ experience and young players made this a match not to be missed.

Another exciting clash will see Nikaosokataq take on Matawila Ngatangia at the CIFA complex at 4:20pm. Nikaosokataq and Matawila Ngatangia both suffered defeats last weekend and will be determined to grab the three points in this clash.

This match will be particularly exciting as Matavella Ngatangia features several former Nikausokatake players, which adds an extra layer of tension and competitiveness to the match.

The senior women’s match will be held at Aretere Park at 2:40pm with Avatiu taking on Puaikura. 2023 champions Avatiu defeated Nikao in their last match, with Paeru Ngaroi and Ngamaanga Taripo performing well, with striker Tashi Kopu dominating the midfield and scoring the goal.

They will be facing a gritty Puaikura midfield led by Teupoko Tuariki and Esther Potoru, while Tasha Dean’s leadership in defence will be crucial in stopping Avatiu’s forwards. Puaikura are fresh off a dominant 4-1 win over Titikaveka and will be aiming for another strong performance.

Meanwhile, at the CIFA Complex, Nikaosokatake will take on Matawila Ngatangia. Both teams will be looking to bounce back from last week’s defeat. This match will be crucial for both Nikaosokatake and Matawila Ngatangia as they will try to turn the tables and get their first win of the season.

The day’s competition will kick off at both venues at 11:15am, starting with the U15 men’s competition, followed by the U15 women’s competition at 12:15pm and the U18 men’s competition at 1:15pm.

Fixtures

Aretere Park: Avatiu FC vs Puaikura FC – 11.15am U15 Boys (Referee: Robert Savage Sr, AR1: Matilda Auua, AR2: Athylene Brecious, 4th: Ua Savage), 12.15pm U15 Girls (Referee: Ua Savage, AR1: Raita Savage, AR2: Andrew Teena, 4th: Robert Savage Jnr), 1.15pm U18 Boys (Referee: John Pareanga, AR1: Teupoko Tuariki, AR2: Athylene Brecious, 4th: Robert Savage Snr), 2.40pm Senior Girls (Referee: Robert Savage Snr, AR1: Jaceline Pukerua, AR2: Athylene Brecious, 4th: Ua Savage), 4.20pm Super Boys (Referee: John Pareanga, AR1: Teupoko Tuariki, AR2: Matilda Auua, 4th: Robert Savage Snr. CIFA Complex: Nikoo Sokattak FC vs Matavera-Ngatangiia FC – 11:15am U15 Boys (Ref: Tupou Brogan, AR1: Mata Iroa, AR2: Lai Gukisuva, 4th: Rakesh Varman), 12:15pm U15 Girls (Ref: Lai Gukisuva, AR1: Athena Napa-Nicholas, AR2: Mata Iroa, 4th: Rakesh Varman), 1:15pm U18 Boys (Ref: Penina Katuke, AR1: Teina Savage, AR2: Tupou Brogan, 4th: Athena Napa-Nicholas), 2:40pm Senior Girls (Ref: George George, AR1: Rangeta Singh, AR2: Rakesh Varman, 4th: Athena Napa-Nicholas), 4:20 p.m. Senior Men’s (Ref: Tupou) Brogan, AR1: Penina Katuk, AR2: George George, 4th: Rakesh Varman).