The Kia Orana Youth Football Tournament came to an end on Saturday with Tupapa Maraerenga making a clean sweep in the under-18 division, winning both the men’s and women’s titles, at CIFA Complex in Matavera.

While the rain made an appearance in the morning, Cook Islands Football Association staff kept close watch to ensure the tournament wouldn’t be interrupted. By midday, the rain began to clear, the whistle was blown and games began.
Playing for third and fourth place in the U18 women’s division was Avatiu who took on Aitutaki, both teams playing their best to defeat the other, however, Aitutaki took the game with a 1-0 score to finish third.

Puaikura women took on Tupapa Maraerenga as both teams played for the U18 women’s title.

With both teams eager to take first place, the game was set to be intense. Tupapa Maraerenga made a brilliant start leading 2-0 at the break. Puaikura did their best to come back in the second half but Tupapa Maraerenga held on to win the match 2-0.

In the U18 men’s division going for third and fourth place, the level of intensity was raised as Atiu took on Aitutaki. At half time, the game was locked at 2-all.

In the second half, Atiu took the lead but Aitutaki levelled the scoreline 3-all sending the match into the dreaded penalty shootout.

Aitutaki stood out in the penalty shootout 4-2 to finish third in the division. 

In the U18 men’s top place playoff, Mangaia and Tupapa Maraerenga battled tooth and nail in a tough battle.

Supporters from both sides filled the grandstand and cheered their teams as Tupapa Maraerenga defeated Mangaia 2-0 to claim the U18 men’s trophy.

The U15 division had four clubs – Aitutaki, Mitiaro, Mangaia and Titikaveka – entering a team each in the boy’s and girl’s divisions.

Taking first place in the U15 boys was Aitutaki followed by Titikaveka in second place and taking third place was Mitiaro. In the U15 girl’s category, Aitutaki took first place, Mitiaro finished second and Mangaia managed third place.
CIFA vice president Moeroa Tamangaro said: “It is good to see the Pa Enua teams take the majority of the trophies home with them. Eight trophies have been won by the teams from the outer islands, this is a good sign and shows their passion for football in the Pa Enua. I am excited to see the results in the next Youth Festival.”

• CIFA Media