Last weekend's round of matches in the 2024 Rarotonga Football Season featured thrilling games across all divisions.

At Aretere Park, Avatiu FC hosted Titikaveka FC in a much-anticipated Premier Men’s clash. Both sides were determined to finish the first round strongly, having secured only one win each in their previous four games.

Avatiu, led by captain James Nand, secured an emphatic 4-1 victory, showcasing their attacking prowess.

Avatiu struck early with Joseph Crocombe opening the scoring, followed shortly by a goal from Andrew Teena. Titikaveka responded with Tangi Akava pulling one back, but Avatiu remained in control. Robert Savage extended their lead, and Chris Pita sealed the win, rounding off an impressive performance.

Despite Titikaveka’s spirited effort, they struggled to break down Avatiu’s organised defence. Bill Tangapiri and Teariki Piri crafted opportunities but lacked the cutting edge in the final third.

In other Premier Men’s matches, Matavera-Ngatangiia edged out Puaikura 2-1 in a closely fought encounter.

Matavera’s disciplined defence held strong under late pressure from Puaikura, securing three valuable points.

On Friday, Tupapa Maraerenga delivered a commanding 5-0 win over Nikao Sokattak. This dominant performance reinforces Tupapa’s status as one of the top contenders this season, while Nikao faces a crucial period of reflection as they look to bounce back.

In the Senior Women’s Division, Avatiu continued their unbeaten run with a hard-fought 1-0 win over Titikaveka. Avatiu’s defence, anchored by Tara Mitchell and Paeru Ngaroi, once again delivered a solid performance, neutralising Titikaveka’s key attackers.

The Titikaveka midfield duo, sisters Edwina Matenga-Piri and Grace Matenga worked tirelessly, crafting play and creating opportunities, frequently finding striker Hannah Sivo. However, despite their best efforts, Sivo couldn’t capitalise.

On the other side, midfielder Ngamaanga Taripo and Rima Browne dictated play for Avatiu, keeping their side on the front foot. Titikaveka’s defence, led by Penina Katuke and Merran Munro, held firm for most of the game, but Avatiu’s relentless pressure eventually broke through.

In the other Senior Women’s matches, Puaikura’s Senior Women bounced back with a 3-1 victory against Matavera-Ngatangiia. The win helps Puaikura keep pace with the competition as they aim to climb the standings.

Tupapa Maraerenga’s Senior Women also had an impressive showing, comfortably defeating Nikao Sokattak 4-0.

As the first round concludes, all teams will now regroup, analyze their performances, and prepare for the challenges ahead in what promises to be a highly competitive season.

• CIFA Media

Results

U6 Mix Division – Avatiu 3 Puaikura 2, Tupapa Maraerenga 0 Titikaveka 0, Nikao Sokattak vs Tupapa Maraerenga – Premier Men    0-5, Senior Women 0-4, U18 Men 1-6, U15 Boys 0-9, U15 Girls 0-0, U12 Mix 2-0, U10 Mix 0-9, U8 Mix 0-16,

Avatiu vs Titikaveka – Premier Men   4-1, Senior Women 1-0, U18 Men 3-0, U15 Boys 1-0, U15 Girls 0-1, U12 Mix 2-0      , U10 Mix 1-4, U8 Mix 3-4, Matavera-Ngatangiia vs Puaikura – Premier Men 2-1 , Senior Women 1-3, U18 Men 11-1, U15 Boys 1-0, U15 Girls 0-1, U12 Mix 7-0, U10 Mix 6-0, U8 Mix 2-4.