Supporters turned up in numbers at CIFA complex on Saturday, for what was a thriller of a game between fan favourites Nikao Sokattak FC and the men in blue Titikaveka FC, in the Tower Insurance premier men’s division.

The Sokattak wasted no time and went straight in attack mode but were challenged by the Titikaveka side who were eager for possession. Denying all chances at their goal, Titikaveka’s backline used full force when attempting to counteract Sokattak’s speedy forwards.

Many attempts at the goal were stopped at both ends with passes going to and from. The Sokattak finally managed a chance right in front of Titikaveka’s goalmouth with Marc Leito finding the gap in the opponent’s defence, setting up Toru Mateariki for the opener.

In the dying stages of the opening spell, scoring machine Julius David weaved his way through Titikaveka’s territory to score Sokattak’s second goal as the side led 2-0 at the break.

Pushing hard for goals in the second half, Titikaveka’s typical goal scorers Rua Oti and Nuku Mokoroa were unable to squeeze through while midfielder Akiona Tairi and Ben Dakuwaqa were starved for possession while on attack.

The Sokattak put the match beyond Titikaveka’s reach with the third and final goal from Maiva Mateariki to win the match 3-0.

Playing their mid-week match on Friday, Tupapa Maraerenga added another three points to their tally after thrashing Puaikura 6-2.

In the Islander senior women’s match, Titikaveka and Nikao Sokattak battled to 1-all draw. Nikao were given a chance at goal with a penalty successfully taken by their midfielder Rima Browne. Titikaveka youngster Penina Katuke equalised from a spot kick to end the match in a stalemate.

The ladies in black Tupapa played rivals Puaikura on Thursday, winning 1-0 to extend their lead on top of the points table.

- CIFA Media

Results

U6 Mix: Tupapa Maraerenga FC vs Puaikura FC: 2-0, Titikaveka FC vs Matavera FC: 6-6. Tupapa Maraerenga FC vs Puaikura FC: U8 Mix: 2-0,

U10 Mix: 2-1, U12 Mix: 1-2, U15 Girls: 1-2, U15 Boys: 12-0, Senior Women: 1-0, Premier Men: 6-2. Avatiu FC vs Matavera FC: U8 Mix: 5-0, U10 Mix: 5-0, U12 Mix: 1-0. Nikao Sokattak FC vs Titikaveka FC: U8 Mix: 4-3, U10 Mix: 7-2, U12 Mix: 3-1, U15 Boys: 7-0, U15 Girls: 0-0, U18 men: 2-0, Senior Women: 1-1, Premier Men: 3-0.