Tupapa Maralenga vs Awatiu, Puaikula vs Nikau Sokatak

The excitement of Rarotonga’s 2024 football season continues today with two major matches: Tupapa Maraerenga and Avatiu will face off at the CIFA complex in Matavera, while Nikao Sokattak will take on Puaikura at Nikao Stadium.

Tupapa Maralunga have now won two games and drawn one, and they will be looking to continue their good form against Awatiu.

Tupapa’s midfield is a great asset with its combination of experience and speed, with Grover Harmon, Paavo Mustonen and Henry McKenzie working together to control the game. Up front, Taffi Ngametua’s pace was crucial in breaking down Awatiu’s defence and creating chances for the team.

Awatiu, who have one win and two losses, have a mix of experienced veterans and newcomers in their team. They will rely on winger Andrew Tiner’s pace to stretch Tupapa’s defense, while midfielders Tione Nande and Chris Pitta aim to disrupt Tupapa’s rhythm and take advantage of counterattacks.

Although Avatiu’s strengths vary, they should not be underestimated as they are capable of challenging more experienced opponents.

The match kicks off at 4.20pm and will be an exciting clash of styles, with Tupapa looking to continue their momentum and Avatiu aiming to bounce back and get a result.

In the senior women’s category, Awatiu’s women faced a tough challenge from Tupapa Maralunga.

Awatiu has gradually regained his form this season and will look to take advantage of any scoring opportunities.

Tupapa’s midfield trio – Kayleena Kermode, Malina Latham and Mii Piri-Savage – will try to disrupt Awatiu’s midfielders Paeru Ngaroi and Rima Browne while creating chances for forwards Jan Marie Taia and Abrihana McBirney.

In turn, Awatiu’s midfielders will try to play precise through balls to the wingers, aiming to break through the Tupapa defence. Defenders Tara Mitchell and Tassi Cope will play a key role in cutting off Tupapa’s forward passes.

Since both teams tied in the last game, they are both eager for victory today and it will be a fierce matchup.

Avatiu will try to find rhythm and take advantage of quick transitions, while Tupapa will look to dictate the tempo through its experienced midfield. This match will be a true test of strategy and execution, with the battle between Avatiu’s dynamic wing attack and Tupapa’s disciplined midfield likely to decide the outcome.

The competition between Tupapa Maraerenga and Avatiu will kick off with an exciting youth match.

The U15 boys team kicked off at 11:15am today, eager to showcase their talents in an entertaining and skilful contest.
The U15 Girls competition will then see a close contest between Avatiu and Tupapa, both teams boasting skilled and determined players. Both teams are expected to display plenty of competitive and technical ability.

The Under 18 Boys’ Division will see Avatiu and Tupapa face off. Both teams have experienced players from the Super Men’s League. Their history of intense and hard-fought battles suggests today’s match will be no exception.

In the other match, Nikau Sokatak will face Puaikula at Nikau Stadium.

In the Super Men’s category, Puaikura have two wins and one draw and will aim to continue their impressive run. Forward Dwayne Te Putoa and company will look to penetrate the Nikau Sokatak defence, which has shown resilience but needs to bolster its attacking edge.

The troubled Nikao Sokattak will try to turn recent challenges into opportunities for a strong performance.

The senior women’s clash between Nikao Sokattak and Puaikura was equally exciting.

Puaikura’s solid midfield and organized defense will be tested by Nikao Sokattak’s reliable defensive lineup. Both teams must seize opportunities and maintain a strong defense to win in this exciting game.

The day’s events kicked off with a series of youth competitions showcasing emerging talent.

The day will begin with a spirited match between the U15 Boys teams of Nikao Sokattak and Puaikura, highlighting the future stars of local football. Both teams have shown potential and this match will be a great opportunity for them to showcase their skills and teamwork.

Following the U15 men’s team, the U15 women’s team will also take part. This match will feature young talents from both clubs, who will try to contribute to the success of their teams.

Before the senior competition begins, the U18 men’s competition will round out the youth competition. Puaikura’s dominant U18 team will face off against a determined Nikao Sokattak side. This match promises to showcase both sides’ skills and potential as both teams look to prove themselves.

Fixtures

At the CIFA Complex in Matawila: Tupapa Maraerenga FC vs Avatiu FC – 11:15am U15 Boys (Ref: Robert Savage Jnr, AR1: Athene Savage, AR2: Teina Savage), 12:15pm U15 Girls (Ref: Jaceline Pukerua, AR1: Tuakeu Palau, AR2: Raita Savage, 4th Mata Iroa), 1:15pm U18 Boys (Ref: John Pareanga, AR1: Teina Savage, AR2: Robert Savage Snr, 4th Mata Iroa), 2:40pm Senior Girls (Ref: Penina Katuke, AR1: Athene Savage, AR2: Teina Savage), 4:20pm U18 Girls (Ref: Jaceline Pukerua, AR1: Tuakeu Palau, AR2: Raita Savage, 4th Mata Iroa), Top Men (Ref: John Palanga, AR1: Penina Katuk, AR2: Robert Savage Sr., 4th Mata Iroa).

At Nikau Stadium: Nikau Sokatak Football Club vs Puaikura Football Club – 11:15am U15 Boys (Referee: Courtney Napa, AR1: Jubilee Jubilee, AR2: Matilda Auua), 12:15pm U15 Girls (Referee: Lai Gukisuva, AR1: Jubilee Jubilee, AR2: Rangeeta Singh), 1:15pm U18 Boys (Referee: Rakesh Varman, AR1: Rangeeta Singh, AR2: Athena Napa-Nicholas, 4th Lai Gukisuva), 2:40pm Senior Girls (Referee: George George, AR1: Lai Gukisuva, AR2: Rangeeta Singh, 4th Jubilee Jubilee), 4:20pm Senior Boys (Referee: Teupoko Tuariki, AR1: Rakesh Varman, AR2: Matilda Auua, 4th His name is Gukisuva.