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The key to the Arorangi Bears’ victory was their forward line as they fought back to defeat the defending champions Tupapa Panthers. Photo: cb_sports_official/24072111
Week three of the Cook Islands Rugby Union Rarotonga Club 15s tournament was filled with exciting matches and a wealth of talent.
The feature match at Remaru Park saw the Arorangi Bears battle it out with the Tupapa Panthers.
The Bears won by a score of 13-3. The game was close throughout, with the Bears leading 6-3.day Minutes later, defenseman Geoff Taripo scored the decisive rolling goal to break the deadlock. Basil Matapo’s successful conversion gave the Bears a comfortable lead, which they maintained until the end of the game. The Panthers tried to fight back but were thwarted by the Bears’ resolute defense.
The key to the Bears’ win was their forward group, which they managed to overcome the defending champions. The Panthers were without their midfield attacking weapon, Ferretti Arnau, who left the game before halftime with a hamstring injury.
For the Panthers, standouts included 17-year-old No. 8 TJ Willie, currently a rugby scholarship student at Waitaki College in New Zealand, No. 5/8 Daneil Toa and counter-attacking fullback Mafu Kalas. The Bears’ best players were loose forwards Albert Etuete and Leni Seu and lateral midfielder Thomas Daniel.
In addition, several youth development matches were held on Saturday afternoon, as well as a women’s match between Arorangi and Tupapa. These events provide a valuable platform for female and emerging athletes to showcase their skills and gain experience, which will provide a bright future for Cook Islands rugby.
Avatiu Nikao Eels defeated Titikaveka Bulldogs 26-13 on Friday.
The Eels started strongly, scoring two points early to take a 14-0 lead. However, they then switched to defensive mode and allowed the Bulldogs to get back into the game. By halftime, the Eels lead was reduced to just one point, 14-13. Despite the Bulldogs’ efforts, they were unable to score in the second half. The Eels regained momentum and eventually won the game with a score of 26-13.
Standout players for the Bulldogs included hard-working forwards Raykon Marsters and Bambridge Valoa, top-scoring 5/8 Teariki Matenga and elusive midfielder Tangi Akava. For the Eels, versatile defender Viiga Reupena and energetic forwards Tamanui Nicholas and Toru Katuke were key contributors.
Reupena of the Eels and Jeff Taripo of the Arorangi Bears were named Player of the Match in their respective matches.
result
Eels: 26 (Tries: Nathan Nabou, Tamanui Nicholas, Ioane Moore and Adyn Kapi. Conv: Tamatoa Nicholas (3)) Bulldogs: 13 (Tries: Teara Henderson, Conv: Teariki Matenga. Pen: T Matenga (2))
Bears: 13 (Try: Jeff Taripo. Conversion: Basil Matapo. Pen: B Matapo (2)) Panthers: 3 (Pen: Daniel Toa).
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