The Arorangi Bears are determined to get their first win in the Rarotonga Club 15s competition after going down to Avatiu Nikao Eels 20-21 last Saturday.

The side will take on defending champions Tupapa Panthers at Victoria Park this afternoon at 4pm.

Coach Tavake Manuel-Karika: “It’s just a matter of working out the little mistakes, especially losing possession when we were in attacking positions.”

“If the boys follow through with what they were doing during training this week, we would be confident of a win.

“That said, the Panthers are a good side, so we will need to play smart. For us, our forward pack should have the advantage, and from there, the backline should help finish it off. We’re expecting it to be close.”

Panthers coach Darren Piri said it would be “a pretty tough game, both teams will be out to prove something after their previous losses”.

“We want to turn up and play some good footy, both sides have got forward packs, so I reckon the contest will be just about even. I hope people come out to support us.”

In the Under-19 match at 2.30pm, Ngatangiia Sea Eagles will play Avatiu Eels.