Matavera-Ngatangiia and Nikao Sokattak will battle in the mid-week clash in round seven 2024 Rarotonga Football Season at the CIFA Complex in Matavera.

With both clubs eager to climb the standings, these matches will be pivotal in shaping their campaigns as the season progresses.

The two clubs will face off in the Under 15 Boys and Senior Women matches this afternoon, followed by their U15 Girls and Premier Men battles tomorrow.

The Matavera-Ngatangiia’s U15 Boys have faced a challenging campaign, currently languishing near the bottom of the table. Despite their struggles, they’ve shown glimpses of their potential and will be keen to turn their season around with a strong showing against Nikao Sokattak.

The Sokattak have enjoyed a steadier run of form, sitting comfortably mid-table and looking to push higher with a win. A victory here could provide the momentum they need to make a late-season surge.

In the Senior Women, Matavera-Ngatangiia side is determined to rebound after last weekend’s setbacks. They will be facing a Nikao Sokattak side who has overcome challenges this season, consistently showing determination and a fighting spirit.

Key players like Tearoa Rouru and Tanga Morris in defence, along with midfielder Debora Mataio and forward Samantha Lockington, will need to be at their best to secure a positive result.

Nikao is still searching for their first win. The side has been putting in strong efforts each week and are determined to turn their fortunes around. Nikao will be looking for guidance and direction from key senior players, including goalkeeper Courtney Napa and Jennifer Akavi. 

On Friday, in the U15 Girls encounter, Matavera-Ngatangiia have shown promise despite facing stiff competition. They’ll be looking to build on their previous performances and secure their first points of the season.

Nikao Sokattak U15 Girls are in a strong position, with a win here potentially propelling them further up the table.

The Premier Men’s clash between Matavera-Ngatangiia and Nikao Sokattak is set to be the feature match of the round.

Matavera, despite recent struggles, have demonstrated they can compete with the best when they hit their stride. Experienced campaigners like Jay Jay Osinamo and Edward Brogan, along with young talent Mareta Tereapii, will be crucial as Matavera aims to secure a vital win and climb the table.

Nikao Sokattak, meanwhile, are still searching for their first points of the season and are desperate to break their winless streak.

Captain Stephen Willis, alongside Nia Remuera and Owenne Matapo, will need to marshal their side effectively to prevent Matavera from finding the back of the net and capitalising on any defensive lapses.

• CIFA Media

Fixtures

Thursday at CIFA Complex, Matavera: 4pm U15 Boys – Matavera-Ngatangiia vs Nikao Sokattak (Ref: Jaceline Pukerua, AR1: Rajeenta Singh, AR2: Penina Katuke), 5pm Senior Women Matavera-Ngatangiia vs Nikao Sokattak (Ref: Penina Katuke, AR1: Jaceline Pukerua, AR2: Rajeenta Singh).

Friday at CIFA Complex, Matavera: 4pm U15 Girls – Matavera-Ngatangiia vs Nikao Sokattak (Ref: Rakesh Varman, AR1: Jaceline Pukerua, AR2: Pennina Katuke), 5pm Premier Men Matavera-Ngatangiia vs Nikao Sokattak (Ref: John Pareanga, AR1: George George, AR2: Penina Katuke, 4th: Ranjeeta Singh).