The 2024 Cook Islands Games rugby league 9s continued to deliver thrilling action on day two yesterday at the National Stadium, with impressive performances from both men’s and women’s teams.

Aitutaki opened the day with a commanding display of skill, overpowering Pukapuka in a 32-9 victory. Their men’s team faced a tougher challenge later on against a formidable Atiu side, with Atiu scoring a last-second try to force a 21-21 draw. Despite the tie, Aitutaki topped Pool A and secured their place in today’s semi-final.

Aitutaki captain James Nand reflected on the day’s games, saying, “I'm proud of the boys for the great effort—we just need to prepare well and let go of today’s flaws to ensure we come back with a clear mentality tomorrow (today) against Rarotonga.”

Mauke also found their way into the top two of Pool A, claiming the second semi-final spot against Pool B winner Rakahanga. This game between Rakahanga and Mauke is set to be a thriller as both teams have what it takes to win the gold medal this year.

Mauke player Kobe Te Maui Tararo shared, “We have a very young team—and we’ve got something that is playing with heart for our island, Mauke. You can teach skills and footy, but you can’t teach heart. We’re looking forward to playing Rakahanga, and we’ve got to play our game and play our hearts out.”

In Pool B, the action was just as dramatic. Rarotonga, one of the tournament favourites, was handed a shocking defeat by a determined Rakahanga side.

Using a well-structured defence and slowing down the game’s tempo, Rakahanga earned a hard-fought victory.

Coach Clive Nicholas of Rarotonga was disappointed but hopeful, stating, “I thought everyone was ready, but frustration got the better of us. In Nines, the team with the most penalties can lose. We’ve got a strong lineup on paper, and I expect a better performance from the boys tomorrow (today).”

Rakahanga captain Basil Matapo added, “I’m proud of the boys. For us, coming into this tournament was about building a culture within our Rakahanga squad, and we’re proud of our achievements so far. For us, it’s what we learn on the journey, not where we end up, so we’re going to use our experiences from the past games to fuel our performance tomorrow (today).”

The women’s division also showcased fantastic matches, with teams battling it out for a spot in the semi-finals. In the first match, Manihiki will take on Mitiaro, while Mauke will go head-to-head with a resilient Atiu side.

The league 9s competition ends tonight with the medal playoffs.

Results

Men’s – Aitutaki 32-9 Pukapuka, Manihiki 19-22 Atiu, Rakahanga 44-4 Tongareva, Mangaia 8-14 Rarotonga, Aitutaki 21-21 Atiu, Mauke 21-4 Pukapuka, Rarotonga 7-10 Rakahanga, Mitiaro 21-35 Tongareva. Women's: Manihiki 23-10 Mauke, Aitutaki 0-22 Mitiaro.

Fixtures

Semifinals: 3pm Women Manihiki-Mitiaro, 3.25pm Women Mauke-Atiu, 3.55pm Men Aitutaki-Rarotonga, 4.20pm Men Mauke-Rakahanga, 4.45pm Women’s Bronze Medal Playoff, 5.05pm Women’s Gold Medal Playoff, 5.30pm Men’s Bronze Medal Playoff, 5.55pm Men’s Gold Medal Playoff, 6.25pm Presentation of Medals.