This week marks the start of the second phase of the 2024 Rarotonga Round Cup Competition, with critical matches poised to shake up the standings.

At the CIFA Complex, league leaders Tupapa Maraerenga will face Matavera-Ngatangiia, while Nikao Sokattak will go up against Avatiu at Nikao Sports Field. Every match is crucial as teams vie for key points in the title race.

Tupapa Maraerenga FC vs Matavera-Ngatangiia FC

Premier Men: 4:20pm

In a highly anticipated top-of-the-table clash, league leaders Tupapa Maraerenga will take on second-placed Matavera-Ngatangiia.

Tupapa has been impressive this season with 13 points, reflecting their strong form and consistent performances. Their well-drilled defense and potent attack have been key to their success.

Despite some key absences, Tupapa’s depth and tactical adaptability make them a formidable opponent. Avi Enoka will anchor the backline, while Shane Tuteru and Henry McKenzie guide the midfield. Tuteru’s creativity and McKenzie’s drive will be key in orchestrating Tupapa’s attack and breaking down Matavera’s defense, with Marcus Gibbens’ pace adding an extra edge.

Matavera-Ngatangiia, currently one point behind Tupapa with 12 points, will look to close the gap and challenge for the top spot.

Despite a 2-0 defeat in their previous encounter with Tupapa, Matavera has been steadily improving, with a series of strong performances in recent weeks.

Midfielders Jay Jay Osinamo and Mark Leito will play important roles in slowing down Tupapa and launching counter-attacks. Osinamo’s defensive work and quick transitions, combined with Leito’s creativity, will be key in challenging Tupapa’s defense. Defenders Edward Brogan and Ronnie Sakai will need to stay sharp to manage Tupapa’s attack. Their experience will be crucial in keeping Tupapa’s forwards in check.

This match promises to be a tactical battle as both teams are well aware of the impact of the result. Expect a closely contested game where strategic decisions and key moments could determine the outcome.

Senior Women: 2:40pm

In the Senior Women’s Division, Tupapa Maraerenga will face Matavera-Ngatangiia in a match that could have a significant impact on the standings. Tupapa, currently in third place with 10 points, will aim to build on their previous 2-0 victory over Matavera. Striker Jan Taia, known for her clinical finishing, will be a key figure in Tupapa’s attack. Her ability to capitalise on scoring opportunities will be crucial for Tupapa.

Tupapa’s midfield will be crucial in driving the attack and controlling the pace of the game, as they work to disrupt Matavera’s defensive setup. By maintaining possession and creating opportunities, they aim to wear down Matavera’s backline and find openings to exploit.

At the back, defenders Claudean Robati and Tupou Brogan will be key to maintaining Tupapa’s defensive solidity. With both the midfield and defense working in tandem, Tupapa will aim to control the game from start to finish.

Matavera-Ngatangiia, determined to recover from their recent loss to Puaikura, will be counting on their midfield to take control of the game and provide crucial support to young striker Tauariki Nia.

With a focus on maintaining possession and pressing forward, Matavera’s midfield will need to work cohesively to break through Tupapa’s defense. Creating chances for Nia will be a priority, as the young striker’s pace and finishing ability could be the key to turning the match in their favor.

Nikao Sokattak FC vs Avatiu FC

Premier Men: 4:20pm

Nikao Sokattak will be aiming for their first win of the season in this important match against Avatiu. After a 4-0 loss in their previous encounter, Nikao knows they need to improve.

Defenders Stephen Willis and Nia Remuera will play a key role in strengthening the defense and addressing the issues that led to their earlier defeat. Midfielders Owenne Matapo and Atu Putere will be crucial in managing the game’s tempo and creating chances. Their ability to keep possession and make accurate passes will be important in breaking down Avatiu’s defense.

Avatiu, currently sitting in fourth place with six points, comes into this match with growing confidence after a strong performance in the previous round. Their young squad, highlighted by promising midfielders Tione Nand and Joseph Crocombe, has shown potential in connecting play and moving forward.

Defensively, Avatiu will rely on the steady presence of Paul Ngaroi and Stanley Tutai, who have proven reliable at the back. Their focus will be on maintaining their strong defensive record and ensuring that Nikao’s attack is kept at bay.

Senior Women: 2:40pm

In their last encounter, Avatiu edged out Nikao Sokattak with a 2-1 victory. As Nikao continues to search for their first win of the season, they’ll rely heavily on goalkeeper Courtney Napa and centre-back Jennifer Akavi to keep Avatiu’s attack at bay. Napa’s shot-stopping ability and Akavi’s defensive leadership will be crucial in containing Avatiu’s strikers.

On the other side, Avatiu will be looking to build on their previous success. Their midfield will focus on creating opportunities for strikers Tashi Kopu and Terrisa Piri, who will aim to capitalise and help Avatiu extend their lead on the table.

With both teams having clear objectives, this match promises to be a competitive showdown.

The day’s fixtures will start with the U15 Boys at 11:15am, followed by the U15 Girls at 12:15pm, and the U18 Men at 1:15pm.

As the competition progresses, each match becomes increasingly significant, adding to the excitement of the title race.

• CIFA Media

Fixtures

At the CIFA Complex: Tupapa Maraerenga FC vs. Matavera-Ngatangiia FC –

11:15am U15 Boys (Ref: Jaceline Pukerua, AR1: Ioane Brogan, AR2: Raita Savage), 12:15pm U15 Girls (Ref: Mata Iroa, AR1: Athylene Savage, AR2: Raita Savage),

1:15pm U18 Boys (Ref: Robert Savage Snr, AR1: Teina Savage, AR2: Athylene Savage, 4th: Mata Iroa), 2:40pm Senior Women (Ref: Penina Katuke, AR1: Jaceline Pukerua, AR2: Matilda Auua, 4th: Mata Iroa), 4:20pm Premier Men (Ref: Robert Savage Snr, AR1: Penina Katuke, AR2: Matilda Auua, 4th Ioane Brogan). At Nikao Sports Field: Nikao Sokattak FC vs. Avatiu FC – 11:15am U15 Boys (Ref: Rakesh Varman, AR1: Tuakeu Paerau, AR2: Andrew Teena), 12:15pm U15 Girls (Ref: Tuakeu Paerau, AR1: Jubilee Jubilee, AR2: Andrew Teena), 1:15pm U18 Boys (Ref: John Pareanga, AR1: Jubilee Jubilee, AR2: Ranjeeta Singh, 4th: Rakesh Varman), 2:40pm Senior Women (Ref: Te Upoko Tuariki, AR1: Rakesh Varman, AR2: Ranjeenta Singh, 4th: Jubilee Jubilee), 4:20pm Premier Men (Ref: John Pareanga, AR1: Te Upoko Tuariki, AR2: Rakesh Varman, 4th: Jubilee Jubilee).