Matavera-Ngatangiia FC and Tupapa-Maraerenga FC are set to face off for the third time this season in the Rarotonga Football Season at the Takitumu Field in Matavera this week.

Both the Premier Men’s and Senior Women’s teams are eager to enhance their standings in the competition.

The battle between the two neighbouring clubs kicks off today with the U15 Boys at 4pm.

Tupapa-Maraerenga, recognised for their organised gameplay, will look to capitalise on any opportunities to strengthen their position as they currently sit sixth. Matavera who is sitting on fifth spot with their unpredictable attacking style poses a challenge, as their young forwards frequently catch opponents off guard.

The Senior Women’s match between the two teams kicks off at 5pm. Matavera will bring a possession-based strategy, advancing the ball and utilising the entire width of the field. Key players Tearoa Rouru and centre back Tanga Morris will play pivotal roles in keeping their team well-organised. Their strategy will likely focus on staying compact to prevent Tupapa’s offensive moves, while quick counterattacks could provide their forwards with the opportunities to strike.

Tupapa, in contrast, is known for its possession-based football. Their midfield controls the tempo of the game, focusing on precise passing and ball retention to create attacking opportunities. They look to feed their striker through well-timed through balls, relying on clinical finishing to convert chances.

Claudean Robati will play a pivotal role in maintaining their composed style of play, while also leading the defensive efforts to prevent Matavera from capitalising on the counter.

On Friday, the U15 Girls match between the two clubs at 4pm will set the tone for the Premier Men’s clash at 5pm.

The Tupapa U15 Girls, fresh off a win the last round, seeks to enhance and maintain their position in the standings, currently sitting first in the standings. Matavera, known for their reliable performances, will push forward to test Tupapa’s defence in what promises to be an exciting match.

The Premier Men’s match will feature a tactical clash between Tupapa’s high-pressing and fast-paced attack, and Matavera’s possession-oriented approach. Matavera, coming off a draw against Puaikura in the last round, will look to players like central defender Ronnie Sakai and Edward Brogan to be instrumental in maintaining their defensive solid. Further up the pitch, the midfield influence of Jayjay Osinamo and the attacking prowess of Alphy Ngire will be crucial as they look to break through Tupapa’s defence.

Tupapa comes into this match after a 3-0 victory against Nikao Sokattak before the season went on a two-week break.

Tupapa has displayed dominance both in attack and defence throughout the season. Defensively, Teina Savage and Avi Enoka have been pivotal in organising their backline. In midfield, Grover Harmon controls the tempo, linking play and creating opportunities for forwards Paavo Mustonen and Tuffy Tuakana, who have been clinical in front of goal. Tupapa’s combination of defensive resilience and attacking width makes them a formidable side on both ends of the pitch.

• CIFA Media

Fixtures

Today at Takitumu Field, Matavera: 4pm U15 Boys Matavera -Ngatangiia vs Tupapa-Maraerenga (Ref: Te-Upoko Tuariki, AR1: Jaceline, AR2: Jubilee Jubilee), 5pm Senior Women Matavera -Ngatangiia vs Tupapa-Maraerenga (Ref: Penina Katuke, AR1: Tuakeu Paerau, AR2: Ioane Brogan,          4th: Mata Iroa).

Tomorrow at Takitumu Field, Matavera: 4pm U15 Girls Matavera-Ngatangiia vs Tupapa-Maraerenga (Ref: Jaceline, AR1: Raita Savage, AR2: Athylene Savage); 5pm Premier Men Matavera -Ngatangiia vs Tupapa-Maraerenga (Ref: John Pareanga, AR1: Teariki Piri  , AR2: Tuakeu Paerau, 4th: Lai Gukisuva).