Round 12 of the 2024 Rarotonga Round Cup showcased the vibrant football culture in Rarotonga and the competitive spirit that defines this year’s tournament.

In the Tupapa-Maraerenga match against Titikaveka FC premier men’s match at the CIFA Complex Tupapa-Maraerenga struck early, scoring in the 8th minute. Forward Ngametua Tuakana seized a well-placed through ball to right-back Marcus Gibbens, coolly firing it past the Titikaveka goalkeeper to give his team a 1-0 lead. This early goal set the tone for a fast-paced encounter. Just before halftime, Tuakana was instrumental again, delivering another precise pass to Geoffrey Strickland, who found the net and doubled Tupapa's lead to 2-0.

Titikaveka refused to back down. Their efforts paid off early in the second half when Bill Tangapiri delivered a perfectly weighted through ball, allowing Temarii Jubilee to make a well-timed run into the box. Jubilee finished with precision, narrowing the score to 2-1 and reigniting hope for Titikaveka.

In the final minutes, both teams ramped up the intensity, exchanging quick attacks and testing each other's defences. Ultimately, Tupapa secured a 3-1 victory, demonstrating their tactical discipline and clinical finishing.

The Senior Women’s match was equally captivating, as Tupapa-Maraerenga faced off against Titikaveka in a fiercely contested battle where Tupapa held on to their slender 1-0 lead, clinching a hard-fought victory.

At the Nikao Field, Nikao Sokattak clashed with Matavera-Ngatangiia in a tightly contested Premier Men’s match. Nikao Sokattak took the lead in the first half through a determined effort by Owenne Matapo, whose relentless pursuit setup Cahjun Willis for the opening goal. Rangi Moore added a second goal for Nikao, giving them a 2-0 advantage.

Matavera-Ngatangiia hard work bore fruit in the second half when they found the back of the net, narrowing the score to 2-1 and this final score reflected a hard-fought contest that highlighted the growing competitiveness of both teams.

In a commanding performance, Matavera’s Senior Women’s team showcased their attacking prowess with a staggering 7-0 victory over Nikao Sokattak. Tearoa Rouru was in sensational form, netting a hat trick and demonstrating her lethal finishing ability. Maeva Carr contributed two goals, underscoring the depth of Matavera’s attacking options.

Throughout the match, Matavera’s strategy of quick passing and coordinated movements consistently broke down Nikao’s defense. Kimberly added another goal, capping off a stellar performance. Despite their efforts, Nikao struggled to penetrate Matavera’s organised backline, leaving them unable to convert their chances into goals.

At Raemaru Park, Puaikura FC faced off against Avatiu FC in another Premier Men’s matchup, Avatiu held on for a 2-1 victory, demonstrating their resolve and tactical execution.

In the corresponding Senior Women’s match, Avatiu delivered an outstanding performance, defeating Puaikura 3-0.

Round 12 of the Rarotonga Round Cup wrapped up another exciting weekend of football, full of drama and skill across all divisions.

Each team showcased their best, from the Premier Men’s and Senior Women’s matches to the youth and mixed divisions. The level of talent and competitive spirit on display highlights the passion for football in Rarotonga, and fans can look forward to more thrilling action as the tournament progresses. CIFA Media

Round 12 Results are:

Under 6 Mix: Tupapa Maraerenga 0 vs 5 Titikaveka; Avatiu 1vs 4 Puaikura

Avatiu vs Puaikura:  Premier Men’s 2-1, Senior Women’s 3-0, U18 Men’s 12-0, U15 Girls 1-1, U15 Boys 5-1, U12 Mix 17-0, U10 Mix 1-1, U8 Mix 10-2.

Nikao Sokattak vs Matavera: Premier Mens 2-1, Senior Womens 0-7, U18 Mens 4-2, U15 Girls 1-0, U15 Boys 4-1, U12 Mix 5-1, U10 Mix 1-5, U8 Mix 0-3, (Matavera won by default)

Tupapa Maraerenga vs Titikaveka: Premier Mens 3-1, Senior Womens 1-0, U18 Mens 0-4, U15 Girls 2-1, U15 Boys 0-7, U12 Mix 0-0, U10 Mix 2-2,U8 Mix 2-3