Round two of the Cook Islands Touch open men’s and women’s division matches were held on Monday at Aretere Park in Avatiu.

In the men’s division, Nukz Power recovered after losing round one match last week, to beat Evolution by a point on Monday.

The match saw some great tries from experienced player Vernon Horn who scored a hattrick.

A nail-biting game was also played between GAT and the Atiu Warriors with the Warriors taking it out by one point.

The final men’s match of the round was played between Palmerston and Team ATT. Both teams were evenly balanced with young and experienced players but Team ATT finished on top.

In the ladies division, Nukz Power came hard against Mangaiia beating them 7 - 1. The team has some inspiring young players – school students with a lot of potential – coached by Julz Westrupp and led by Rima Browne. 

After last week’s default win, Nukz were hungry to play showing their eagerness against team Evolution coming out the victors.

Led by former national touch rep Edith Nicholas, the team had a good game strategy and is definitely one to look out for this season. Nukz Power played their second match of the round against Team ATT. Team ATT were beaten by the Mighty Arrows 8 - 0. 

During the match, young Mahana Sijp playing mid with Rima Browne caused some disruption to ATT’s defence line from time to time.

In the final women’s match of round two, Bounty Hunters recorded a close win against FBI. This game was played with a lot of flair and pace. Both these teams have former reps playing in defence and attack. Hinnah Tatuava was the playmaker for FBI.

Unfortunately, FBI went down by one point with Bounty Hunters taking out the game on the hooter.