Day one of the Rarotonga 7s 2024 tournament kicked off with an exciting start as defending champions Tupapa Panthers edged out the Arorangi Bears 12-5.

The Panthers showed their experience early, holding strong in defence and striking back with quick, sharp plays.

The Bears pushed hard, but Tupapa’s ability to stay calm under pressure and finish their chances made the difference.

It was a solid start for the champs, who look ready to defend their title.

In the first half Panthers led 7-0. After half-time Panthers made another try leading 12-0. Despite the Bears making a try, it was too late for them to beat the defending champs.

Veteran Colati Ravula was a player to beat as each time he had the ball- and he led his team to victory in the opening game.

In the second game, Veilomani Cook Islands-Fijian residents made their presence felt with a dominant 21-0 win over the Takuvaine Reds.

The Reds, featuring several new players, struggled to keep up with Veilomani’s speed and power.

Captain Richie Tuivanuavou was the star of the show, setting up tries with brilliant runs and smart passes.

Seconds into the first half they made a try and had a successful conversion and seconds into the second half, Veilomani made tries and converted, closing their match with a 21-0 win.

Veilomani, which had some import Fijian players, had rock-solid defence, keeping the Reds scoreless and sending a strong message to the rest of the competition.

The third match saw Avatiu’s “Men of the Swamp” face off against another Fijian side, Tabusoro Fijian-Cook Islands residents. Tabusoro controlled the game from start to finish, using smart tactics and powerful runs to break through the Eels’ defence.

At half time they led 12-0. Their disciplined play and quick attacks led to a commanding 24-0 victory.

On defence, Tabusoro were equally impressive, shutting down any attempt by the Eels to get on the scoreboard.

Flashy wing- Henry Ragg was a star keeping the Eels on their toes- the Tabusoro NZ based player said “ wasn’t too bad , we had a confident start - and could use the width more for a better turnout in the next game “

Tabusoro captain Petero Lagilagi shared, “It was a great game for us, boosting our confidence. However, there were minor game plays that we could have executed better, and we look forward to picking this up in our second game.”

Meanwhile in other matches, Veilomani defeated Avatiu Eels 10-7. In the women’s match Avatiu Eels defeated New Zealand’s North-shore B team 24-12 and in the North-shore A match it was 17-19 to Tupapa and Lady Panthers 7-10 Lady Eels, North Shore A26-5 B.

In other mathes; Tupapa Panthers 19-14 Takuvaine, Bears 14-15 Tabusoro, , TKV Reds 19-17 Eels, Bears 10-12 veilomani and Panthers 24- Tabusoro 10.

With day one in the books, Tupapa, Veilomani and Tabusoro have established themselves as teams to watch. All have shown strength, skill, and determination, setting the stage for an action-packed tournament ahead. Fans can expect plenty more thrilling rugby this afternoon. 

Fixtures today:

4pm: Mens- Eels vs Panthers

4.18pm: Tabusoro vs Veilomani

4.36pm: TKV reds vs Bears

4.54pm: U16 Drua vs Bati

5.12pm: Lady Eels vs Nth Shore

5.30pm: Lady Panthers vs Nth Shore

5.48pm: Tabusoro vs TKV Reds

6.06pm: Panthers vs Veilomani

6.24pm: Eels vs Bears.

7pm: U16 Drua vs Bati

7.20pm: Womens Final 3^rd vs 4^th

7.40pm: Mens Final 4th vs 3^rd

8pm: Womens Final 1^st vs 2^nd

8.20pm: Mens Final 1^st vs 2^nd