CIFA Complex saw three matches played in the U18s women and men’s Pool A, while Takitumu School hosted two Pool B matches.
With the CIFA complex field two under
water due to heavy rain last week, it wasn’t going to stop the opening round of
the Football Festival. Takitumu School field was designated as backup which
kept two matches on schedule.
The U18 women’s teams took the field first at both venues. Spectators arrived
to watch as Atiu took on Avatiu. At Takitumu School field, Rarotonga rivals Tupapa
Maraerenga batted Puaikura.
The second match saw more spectators
arrive at both fields as the grandstand at the CIFA complex filled, to watch Titikaveka
U18 women take on Aitutaki. At Takitumu School, the first match for the U18 men’s
kicked off with Tupapa Maraerenga playing off against Avatiu
The final match on day one was played at the CIFA Complex between Mauke and
Aitutaki, and although the game was behind schedule, it was a game worth
watching. With a large crowd of support for both teams, the cheers brought more
excitement to the game.
In Pool A U18 women’s match, Avatiu thumped Atiu 15-0 while Aitutaki defeated Titikaveka 4-0. Mauke beat Aitutaki 3-1 in the U18 men’s match.
In Pool B U18 women’s clash, Puaikura and
Tupapa Maraerenga match ended in a 1-all draw and Tupapa Maraerenga beat Avatiu
5-0 in U18 men’s match.
Mangaia will make their debut in the tournament on Monday (today). There will
be five more games held in the U18 women and men’s divisions. These games will
be held at both the CIFA Complex and Takitumu School Field.
CIFA vice president Moeroa Tamangaro said: “This tournament is a stepping stone
for players to gain and develop new skills and talent, a chance for these young
men and women to compete against new competitors. A tournament where they can
showcase their performance, energy and confidence in football. All games were
intense on Saturday, filled with eager participants doing their best to take
the win and I am proud of all the youth taking part in this tournament.”
“Come through, support your favourite team or join the excitement and cheer on all participants.”
Fixtures
CIFA Complex – 12:00 pm, Pool B, U18 Women Tupapa
Maraerenga vs Mangaia, 1:25pm, Pool B, U18 Men Tupapa Maraerenga vs Mangaia. Games
at Takitumu School – 12:00pm, Pool A, U18 Women Atiu vs Aitutaki, 1:25pm, Pool
A, U18 Women Avatiu vs Titikaveka, 2:50pm, Pool A, U18 Men Aitutaki vs Atiu.