As the weekend approaches, rugby union enthusiasts are gearing up for a series of thrilling matches featuring both junior and premier teams.

The week five action in the Cook Islands Rugby Union Rarotonga Club 15s competition got underway yesterday afternoon at Victoria Park with defending champions Tupapa Panthers battling Titikaveka.

The excitement continues today, starting with the junior development matches and culminating with the premier men’s clash between table leaders Avatiu Nikao Eels and Arorangi Bears.

At 12 noon, boys and girls will showcase their budding talents in the U10s tackle and U8s/6s Rippa games. Following this, at 1pm, the U12 Eels will face off against the Bears in a clash of youngsters, setting the stage for an action-packed day.

At 2pm, more junior talent will be on display as the U14 Eels and Bears battle it out. The older juniors take to the field at 2.30pm, with the U16 Bears versus the Eels match promising to be highly competitive.

The highlight of the weekend will be the premier match between the Eels and the Bears.

Their last encounter three weeks ago was a closely contested arm-wrestle, with the Eels ultimately winning 12-3. The Bears led for most of that match with a 3-0 advantage, but the Eels’ self-confidence and resilience saw them score two late tries in the final 10 minutes to secure the win.

For the Bears, key players will be versatile leader Rob Heather, who is expected to lead with his actions whether he plays at hooker or first 5/8, and their formidable forward pack led by giant front rowers Daniel “Magic” Tonorio and Tua Tepai.

The Eels will rely on the creative halves pairing of Viiga Reupena and Jale Lagidela, along with their industrious loose forward trio led by Li Ponini, Tamanui Nicholas and Aydn Kapi.

The premier men’s match will kick off at 3.30pm.