A match supporters have been waiting for – the clash of the Titians affair will take place in the domestic football competition.

In today’s premier men’s match, table topper Nikao Sokattak will take on archrivals Tupapa Maraerenga in the feature match of the round at CIFA Complex in Matavera.

Currently leading in the 2021 Round Cup, Nikao Sokattak have proven lethal so far and much attention will centre on this team as they look to keep their lead and take the title.  

Nikao Sokattak are sure to amp up the antics for their game today, and without a doubt, they will look to further their lead.

“Obviously, we want to win but this is Tupapa we are facing and we know that it’s anyone’s game,” Nikao captain James Osiramo said.

“The plan is to focus on how we want to play, on what we worked on in preparation for this game.

“I am expecting us to play our style of football and give our rivals a good game.”  

Opponents Tupapa Maraerenga met a devastating fate against Titikaveka last week and will want to move away from that loss and get back into their usual winning style.

Captain Anthony Samuela said they are looking to improve on their last game in terms of team work.

“We are playing the way we usually do by moving the ball quicker and smarter, and to put away our chances in order to progress.”  

At the Teimurimotia Park, Titikaveka after their win against Tupapa Maraerenga last week will host Avatiu.

With the way both have played in recent weeks, these teams are set to make it difficult on both ends.

Tupapa Maraerenga’s Anthony Samuela gains control of the ball. CIFA MEDIA/21102202

Avatiu, who stand under Titikaveka on the points table, will be eager to take three points to place themselves at third spot, but with Titikaveka on a high, it won’t be easy.

In the Islander senior women’s division, Tupapa Maraerenga will likely come out sturdy against Nikao, but with what we’ve seen in these past two rounds, games like these have shown that no one is guaranteed a clean sheet.

Nikao, although standing at fourth place, have maintained a strong side and will need to continue this strength in order to overthrow Tupapa.

Titikaveka women’s will take on Avatiu on home grounds, and will want to avoid another loss on their own soil.

All games kick off at 11.15am with the U15 Boys opening today’s fixtures.

- CIFA Media

Fixtures

CIFA complex, Matavera – 11.15am Under 15 Boys. Tupapa Maraerenga FC vs Nikao Sokattak FC (Ref: Merian Noovao, Assist: Noovao Noovao, Theressa Kaukura), 12.15pm Under 15 Girls. Tupapa Maraerenga FC vs Nikao Sokattak FC (Ref: Poko Manuela, Assist: Anzac Tapaitau, Tailei Noovao), 1.15pm Under 18 Men. Tupapa Maraerenga FC vs Nikao Sokattak FC (Ref: Maara Kaukura, Assist: John Pareanga, Poko Tangata), 2.40pm Senior Women. Tupapa Maraerenga FC vs Nikao Sokattak FC (Ref: Tahiri Elikana, Assist: Gideon Pouao, Kimberly Uini), 4.15pm Premier Men. Tupapa Maraerenga FC vs Nikao Sokattak FC (    Ref: Maara Kaukura, Assist: John Pareanga, Tupou Brogan).

Titikaveka Field – 11.15am Under 15 Boys. Titikaveka FC Avatiu FC (Ref: Tehainnah Tatuava, Assist: Penina Katuke, Jaceline Nand), 12.15pm Under 15 Girls. Titikaveka FC vs Avatiu FC (Ref: Kataraina Piri, Assist: Ua Savage, Junior Savage), 1.15pm Under 18 Men. Titikaveka FC vs Avatiu FC (Ref: Terry Piri, Assist: Teupoko Tuariki, Matilda Auua), 2.40pm Senior Women. Titikaveka FC vs Avatiu FC (Ref: Lai Gukisuva, Assist: Junior Savage, Tione Nand), 4.15pm Premier Men. Titikaveka FC vs Avatiu FC (Ref: Robert Savage, Assist: Kataraina Piri, Tehainnah Tatuava).