More epic battles, at CIFA Complex in Matavera, are set for this mid-week. A match between adored Nikao Sokattak FC and the ever improving Matavera FC, in the Islander Hotel women’s division is bound to be a gripping game to watch this afternoon.

These two teams who are currently placed close to each other on the points table will be going all out for the maximum match points to improve their standings.

After Matavera’s devastating defeat on Monday against Avatiu, they will be looking to make amends and steal back their fourth place where Nikao Sokattak is currently placed.

Matavera’s forwards Kimberly Uini and Maeva Carr, who will spearhead their attack, and defenders Patricia Taea and Moeroa Rata will need to jell together to guide their team through an uneasy Nikao mid-field in order to get the much-needed goals.

While their mid-field holds sweepers like Juliane Westrupp and Rima Browne who continuously steal possession from the opposing teams, Nikao will need to prioritise attacking play especially when entering Matavera’s territory as the latter are known for their solid defending.

The highly anticipated match will kick off at 5pm.

In the Tower Insurance premier men’s match on Friday, it will be a battle between two teams who sit on opposite ends of the points table.

Still holding their first placing, Nikao Sokattak have certainly recovered from their earlier poor performances and are firm favourites in this clash.

The Mateariki brothers Toru and Maeva, along with deadly striker Julius David have been a trio to look out for throughout the season as their skillful and speedy play aren’t easy to defend.

Matavera will need to hold tight when in control of the ball. A strong back is needed when playing Nikao, so Matavera’s backline soldiers David Piakura and Patrick Schneider will need to keep both eyes on the deadly trio in order to keep them at bay.

- CIFA Media

Fixtures

Today at CIFA complex, Matavera – 4pm Under 15 Boys Nikao Sokattak FC vs Matavera FC (Ref: Poko Manuela, Assist: Tailei Blake, Ua Savage), 5pm Senior Women Nikao Sokattak FC vs Matavera FC (Ref: Robert Savage, Assist: Ua Savage, Lai Gukisuva). Tomorrow at the CIFA complex, Matavera – 4pm Under 15 Girls Nikao Sokattak FC vs Matavera FC (Ref: Tehainnah Tatuava, Assist: Theressa Kaukura, Noovao Blake), 5pm  Premier Men Nikao Sokattak FC vs Matavera FC (Ref: Terry Piri, Assist: Kataraina Piri, Tehainnah Tatuava).