The Cook Islands Games Rugby League 9s competition got off to a fantastic start on Saturday, with island teams bringing their best to the field in a day filled with intense action and spirited performances.

The tournament, showcasing both men’s and women’s teams, has already highlighted the immense talent and passion of the athletes, setting the stage for an exciting competition in the remaining days today and tomorrow at the National Stadium in Nikao.

In the men’s division, the competition was fierce, with standout teams emerging from both Pool A and Pool B. Mauke and Aitutaki led the charge in Pool A, delivering remarkable performances that kept spectators on the edge of their seats. Mauke showed great resilience and determination, securing a 17-12 victory over Atiu in game one and later overpowering Manihiki with a narrow 14-12 win. Aitutaki, on the other hand, demonstrated their strength with an 18-10 triumph over Manihiki, proving themselves as serious contenders for the top spot.

In Pool B, Rarotonga and Rakahanga set the field ablaze with their dominating displays. Rarotonga secured a commanding 34-8 win against Tongareva, while Rakahanga’s 24-8 victory over Mangaia established their position as a force to be reckoned with. Both teams showcased exceptional teamwork and strategic gameplay, highlighting their ambitions for the upcoming medal playoffs.

The women’s division brought an extra level of excitement to the tournament, with Manihiki and Mauke leading the charge in Pool A. Manihiki’s impressive 21-0 win over Mangaia set the tone for their campaign, while Mauke’s solid 14-4 victory over Mangaia showcased their defensive strength. Both teams displayed remarkable skill and coordination, making them the ones to watch in Pool A.

Pool B saw Atiu shine with their decisive 25-8 and 29-0 wins over Mitiaro and Aitutaki, respectively, underlining their potential as top contenders in the women’s competition.

Individual brilliance was on full display, with standout players like Ravula Colati, Mafu Kalas, and Tama Nicholas making their mark on the field. Their agility, playmaking skills, and ability to set up crucial tries were instrumental in driving their respective island teams forward. These seasoned athletes, alongside the emerging rookies, ensured a thrilling spectacle for all rugby league fans.

As the tournament heads into day two on Monday, the anticipation for the medal playoffs continues to build. With Mauke and Aitutaki leading in Men’s Pool A, Rarotonga and Rakahanga dominating in Pool B, and the women’s sides of Manihiki, Mauke, and Atiu standing tall, the stage is set for a dramatic showdown.

Results

Men A Mauke 17 Atiu 12, Men A Aitutaki 18 Manihiki 10, Men B Mitiaro 14 Rarotonga 25, Men B Rakahanga 24 Mangaia 8, Women A Manihiki 21 Mangaia 0, Women B Mitiaro 8 Atiu 25, Men A Manihiki 12 Mauke 14, Men A Atiu 28 Pukapuka 6, Men B Mangaia 13 Mitiaro 17, Men B Rarotonga 34 Tongareva 8, Women A Mangaia 4 Mauke 14, Women B Atiu 29 Aitutaki 0, Men A Pukapuka 8 Manihiki 15, Men A Mauke 17 Aitutaki 22, Men B Tongareva 10 Mangaia 25, Men B Mitiaro 16 Rakahanga 32.

Fixtures

Today – 2pm Men A Aitutaki-Pukapuka, 2.25pm Men A Manihiki-Atiu, 2.55pm Men B Rakahanga-Tongareva, 3.15pm Men B Mangaia-Rarotonga, 3.40pm Women A Mauke-Manihiki, 4.05pm Women B Aitutaki-Mitiaro, 4.30pm Men A Atiu-Aitutaki, 4.55pm Men A Pukapuka-Mauke, 5.20pm Men B Rarotonga-Rakahanga, 5.45pm Men B Tongareva-Mitiaro.