Clash of the titans opener

Todays CITC rugby match of the week will be the clash of rival titans the Avatiu Eels and Arorangi Cowboys.

This match will take spectators back to the 2010 grand finals matchup between these two clubs but this is a fresh year and start so expect both sides to come out firing.

Looking at past performances, the Eels more often than not have a slow start to the season as they settle back into the swing of rugby.

While the Eels certainly had a slow start at the pre-season sevens last week due to the absence of players, the squad is back to full strength with the return of Nicholas brothers Clive and Louis together with scheming halfback Teokotai Billy Bush Tuaivi.

But the Cowboys know to never underestimate the Eels and their feared front row will be looking to mow down the Eels today.

The Cowboys will be relying on their new recruits to step up today as their territorial pressure and kicking game will be weakened by the absence of the cultured kicking boots of David Wichman, who is off the island.

But the Eels and Cowboys match wont be the only exciting senior A rugby game played today as all clubs are ready to do their village proud.

At Nukupure Park the Flying Dragons will rumble with the Takuvaine Reds in what should be a thrilling match while the Titikaveka Bulls meet the Tupapa Panthers at the Titikaveka sports grounds.

Games at the Titikaveka field kick off at 12.45pm with the under 13 grade at the Titikaveka field where the womens sevens match will also take place at 3.50pm.

Games at Avatiu and Ngatangiia start at 12pm and all main games today kick off at 4.10pm.

Avatiu Eels Sonny-Bill Foster, Manu George, Tearii Aberahama, Louis Nicholas, Nga Manuela, Lee Ponini, Aseki Toru, Clive Nicholas, Teokotai Tuaivi, Atu Toru, Duane Gukisuva, Andy Kapi, Maaka Tereu, Tairi Elikana and Ben Maaka.

Arorangi Cowboys Mak Makirere, Katini Heather, David Heather, Danny Heather, Mattew Tepai, Waisoi Mamanu, Simiona Wichman, Ina Tapurau, Spoon Marsters, Sami Pereti, Moti Tuivaga, Edwin Teraitua, Dickie Taro Mataroa, Rouru Mamanu and Louis Moemai.