The excitement in the Rarotonga football 2024 season continues today with two key fixtures: Tupapa Maraerenga and Avatiu are set to clash at the CIFA Complex in Matavera, while Nikao Sokattak faces Puaikura at Nikao Sports Field.

Tupapa Maraerenga, with two wins and a draw so far, will look to extend their good run of form against Avatiu.

With a blend of experience and pace, Tupapa’s midfield is a key strength, featuring Grover Harmon, Paavo Mustonen and Henry McKenzie working in unison to control the game. Upfront, Tuffy Ngametua’s speed will be vital in unlocking Avatiu’s defence and creating chances for his team.

Avatiu, with one win and two losses, has a mixture of seasoned veterans with emerging talents. They will depend on the pace of wide forward Andrew Teena to stretch Tupapa’s defence, while midfielders Tione Nand and Chris Pita will aim to disrupt Tupapa’s rhythm and exploit counter-attacking chances.

Despite their mixed form, Avatiu is not to be underestimated, as they have the tools to challenge their more experienced opponents.

This match kicking off at 4.20pm promises an exciting clash of styles, with Tupapa looking to build on their momentum and Avatiu aiming to bounce back and make their mark.

In the Senior Women’s Division, Avatiu’s women face a formidable challenge against Tupapa Maraerenga.

Avatiu, gradually finding their form this season, will seek to capitalide on any scoring opportunities.

Tupapa’s midfield trio – Kayleena Kermode, Malina Latham and Mii Piri-Savage – will look to disrupt Avatiu’s midfielders Paeru Ngaroi and Rima Browne, while creating chances for forwards Jan Marie Taia and Abrihana McBirney.

Avatiu’s midfielders, in turn, will attempt precise through balls to their wide forwards, aiming to break down Tupapa’s defence. Defenders Tara Mitchell and Tashi Kopu will be crucial in cutting off passes to Tupapa’s forwards.

With both teams coming off a draw in their last match, they will be eager for a win today, setting the stage for an intense encounter.

Avatiu will aim to find their stride and exploit quick transitions, while Tupapa will seek to control the tempo through their experienced midfielders. This match will be a true test of strategy and execution, with the battle between Avatiu’s dynamic wide play and Tupapa’s disciplined midfield likely determining the outcome.

The Tupapa Maraerenga and Avatiu fixtures will kick off with the youth matches which are set to be action-packed.

The U15 Boys kick off today’s fixtures at 11:15am, eager to showcase their talents in what promises to be an entertaining and skillful match.
The U15 Girls will follow, featuring a competitive contest between Avatiu and Tupapa, with both squads boasting skillful and determined players. Expect plenty of competitive play and technical ability from both sides.

The U18 Men’s division will see Avatiu and Tupapa face off. Both teams include players with experience in the Premier Men’s league. Their history of intense, hard-fought battles suggests today’s game will be no different.

In the other clash, Nikao Sokattak will host Puaikura at Nikao Sports Field.

In the Premier Men’s Division, Puaikura, with two wins and a draw, aims to continue their impressive run. Striker Dwayne Tiputoa and his teammates will seek to break through Nikao Sokattak’s defence, which has shown resilience but needs to enhance its attacking edge.

The struggling Nikao Sokattak will look to turn recent challenges into opportunities for a standout performance.

The Senior Women’s Division clash between Nikao Sokattak and Puaikura will be equally riveting.

Puaikura’s solid midfield and organised defence will be tested against Nikao Sokattak’s reliable defensive setup. Both teams must capitalise on their chances and maintain strong defensive lines to secure victory in this competitive matchup.

The day starts with a series of youth matches showcasing emerging talent.

Nikao Sokattak and Puaikura’s U15 Boys teams will start the day with a competitive game, highlighting the future stars of local football. Both teams have shown promise, and this match will be a great opportunity for them to demonstrate their skills and teamwork.

Following the U15 Boys, the U15 Girls will take the field. This match will feature young talent from both clubs striving to make their mark and contribute to their teams’ success.

The U18 Men’s match will bring a dynamic conclusion to the youth fixtures before the senior games begin. Puaikura’s dominant U18 team will face a determined Nikao Sokattak side. This game promises to showcase skill and potential as both teams aim to make a statement.

• CIFA Media

Fixture

At CIFA Complex, Matavera: Tupapa Maraerenga FC vs Avatiu FC – 11:15am  U15 Boys (Ref: Robert Savage Jnr, AR1: Athylene Savage, AR2: Teina Savage), 12:15pm U15 Girls (Ref: Jaceline Pukerua, AR1: Tuakeu Paerau, AR2: Raita Savage, 4th Mata Iroa), 1:15pm U18 Boys (Ref: John Pareanga, AR1: Teina Savage, AR2: Robert Savage Snr, 4th Mata Iroa), 2:40pm Senior Women (Ref: Penina Katuke, AR1: Athylene Savage, AR2: Mata Iroa, 4th Robert Savage Snr), 4:20pm Premier Men (Ref: John Pareanga, AR1: Penina Katuke, AR2: Robert Savage Snr, 4th Mata Iroa).

At Nikao Sports Field: Nikao Sokattak FC vs Puaikura FC – 11:15am U15 Boys (Ref: Courtney Napa, AR1: Jubilee Jubilee, AR2: Matilda Auua), 12:15pm U15 Girls (Ref: Lai Gukisuva, AR1: Jubilee Jubilee, AR2: Rangeeta Singh), 1:15pm U18 Boys (Ref: Rakesh Varman, AR1: Rangeeta Singh, AR2: Athena Napa-Nicholas, 4th Lai Gukisuva), 2:40pm Senior Women (Ref: George George, AR1: Lai Gukisuva, AR2: Rangeeta Singh, 4th Jubilee Jubilee), 4:20pm Premier Men (Ref: Teupoko Tuariki, AR1: Rakesh Varman, AR2: Matilda Auua, 4th Lai Gukisuva).