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Tupapa Panthers’ groom Karas scores for the team against Avatiu Nikao Eels at Teimurimotia Park in Titikaveka in July. The two teams will meet in the Rarotonga Club Under-15 Grand Final this afternoon. cb_sports_official/24072809
The 2024 Rarotonga Club Under 15s Rugby Grand Final will be a memorable clash between two of the country’s fiercest rugby rivals: the Tupapa Panthers and the Awati Unikau Eels, taking place this afternoon at Teimurimotia Park.
These two strong teams are only separated by a few points in recent games, and fans can expect a fierce battle.
The scene that remains fresh in everyone’s memory is the dramatic 13-12 win that the Panthers won over the Eels in the 2023 Grand Final. A last minute try in the 79th minute sealed the victory for the Panthers, leaving the Eels heartbroken.
This year, the two teams have traded wins and losses, with the Eels narrowly winning 16-13 in the first meeting of 2024, while the Panthers bounced back strongly in the second meeting, winning the Eels 19-17.
Panthers coach Darren Pirie believes the matchup will be an exciting one.
“We’ve had some good training sessions and are looking forward to going out there and playing a good game,” he shared.
Pirie acknowledged the quality of the Eels squad but stressed discipline was key.
“Whoever can maintain a rigorous style of play will win tomorrow (today).”
Eels head coach Clive Nicholas echoed a similar sentiment and highlighted his team’s commitment and hard work throughout the season.
“The success we have had so far has been due to the hard work and dedication of the lads at the club. They do their job and follow the club’s instructions to do everything,” said Nicholas.
Despite all the challenges and personalities within the team, Nicholas is proud of the team’s spirit of unity.
“Everyone is getting closer and closer and respecting each other. Everyone wants to win, and that’s our biggest motivation.”
The Eels’ key players include a gritty forward line-up led by captain Lee Bonini. Tamanui Nicholas, Josh Motu and Adin Kapi add to their strong side, while strong midfield defenders Viliami “Bill” Temo and Tamatoa Nicholas have been performing consistently throughout the season.
For the Panthers, their strong forward line-up is made up of “80-minute” front rowers Davey Mato, Lua Tua and Kana Nga.
“They will aim to control set pieces in order to benefit dynamic midfielders Tua Ravula and Al Momoisea. This much-anticipated midfield showdown is expected to play a major role in determining the course of the game,” said Cook Islands Rugby Union Development Manager Ben Koteka.
“Both teams are ready to battle it out, and it will be a close call in the finals. The outcome will likely come down to which team can quickly adjust to the tempo of the game and maintain discipline with and without the ball throughout the 80 minutes. One thing is for sure: fans are in for an exciting clash.”
Fixtures
12pm: Junior Development: U6/8 Rippa and U10 Tackle (Half-time); 1pm: U12 Eels v Bears; 2pm: Girls Rugby Bears v Panthers; 2.30pm: U14 Eels v Bears; 3pm: U16 Eels v Bears; 4pm: Super League: Tupapa Panthers v Avatiu Eels.
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