Last year’s Premier Men’s champions, Tupapa Maraerenga, will play host to Matavera-Ngatangiia in their first-round match of the 2024 Premier Men’s Championship at Victoria Park this afternoon.

Tupapa will be looking to secure their first win of the season, while Matavera, energised by newly acquired players, seeks to signal their competitiveness early on.

Both clubs have prepared well, participating in several warm-up matches over the past few weeks.

Tupapa Maraerenga’s key players include Grover Harmon, a vital midfielder known for his playmaking abilities, Paavo Mustonen, a consistent goal-scorer who can change the game’s momentum, and Sunai Joseph, a forward whose presence on the right side fortifies the attack.

On the other side, Matavera’s squad will feature key players such as Paul Poila, a dynamic wide forward expected to drive their attack. Newly transferred from Nikao Sokattak, striker Julius David and midfielder Mark Leito are anticipated to make a significant impact, bringing fresh energy to the team.

Both sides have had competitive encounters last season, and will look to leverage their preparation and past experiences, promising spectators an exciting match

On the west side of the island, Puaikura will host Titikaveka at Raemaru Park in a match that promises to be engaging.

Both teams are eager to start the season strongly. Puaikura’s Dwayne Tiputoa and Jarves Aperau will look to thwart Titikaveka’s attack and capitalise on counterattacks, while Titikaveka’s Teariki Piri and Bill Tangipiri will aim to execute similar strategies for their side.

In the Senior Women's Division, the match between Tupapa Maraerenga and Matavera-Ngatangiia is set to be thrilling, continuing their history of closely fought contests.

Last season, Tupapa Maraerenga consistently performed well in their matches, demonstrating a strong presence on the field.

Despite this, Matavera also showed considerable skill and resilience, making each encounter a challenging and competitive affair.

Both teams boast a lineup of seasoned players and up-and -coming talent, ensuring that this match will be a high stake battle showcasing skill, experience, and determination from both sides.

In the other Senior Women’s Division match, Puaikura will face Titikaveka.

Both teams have shown that they can be strong competitors. Last season, Puaikura had solid performances, playing well both in defence and attack. Titikaveka also proved they could give their opponents a tough game.

This match is set to be exciting, as both teams feature a mix of experienced players and newer, younger talent. Fans can expect a game full of skill and action.

The day will kick off with the BSP U15 Boys at 11:15am, followed by the BSP U15 Girls at 12:15pm, and concluding our youth matches with the U18 Men at 1:15pm.

• CIFA Media

Fixtures

At Victoria Park – Tupapa Maraerenga FC vs Matavera-Ngatangiia FC: 11:15am U15 Boys (Ref: Lai Gukisuva, AR1: Jaceline Pukerua, AR2: Teina Savage, 4th: Rakesh Varman), 12:15pm U15 Girls (Ref: Jaceline Pukerua, AR1: Athena Napa-Nicholas, AR2: Lai Gukisuva),  1:15pm U18 Boys (Ref: Rakesh Varman, AR1: Teina Savage, AR2: Rangeeta Singh, 4th: Athena Napa-Nicholas), 2:40pm Senior Women (Ref: George George, AR1: Rangeeta Singh, AR2: Andrew Teena, 4th: Rakesh Varman), 4:20pm.

Premier Men (Ref: Rakesh Varman, AR1: Tupou Brogan, AR2: George George, 4th: Andrew Teena). At Raemaru Park – Puaikura FC vs Titikaveka FC: 11:15am U15 Boys (Ref: Robert Savage Snr, AR1: Matilda Auua, AR2: Athylene Brecious, 4th: Ua Savage), 12:15pm U15 Girls (Ref: Ua Savage, AR1: Raita Savage, AR2: Jubilee Jubilee), 1:15pm U18 Boys (Ref: Te Upoko Tauriki, AR1: Tuakeu Paerau, AR2: Athylene Brecious, 4th: Robert Savage Snr), 2:40pm Senior Women (Ref: Robert Savage Jnr, AR1: Raita Savage, AR2: Jubilee Jubilee, 4th:Ua Savage), 4:20pm Premier Men (Ref: John Pareanga, AR1: Te Upoko Tuariki, AR2: Tuakeu Paerau, 4th: Ua Savage).