Avatiu upset Tupapa

Avatiu caused a big upset on Saturday by beating the Tupapa premier men’s soccer team for the first time in almost a decade by one goal to nil.

As the final whistle blew, Avatiu premier men’s players and supporters cheered with excitement as their team had caused a big upset for leaders Tupapa by winning their game.

Tupapa showed dominance with ball possession but failed to slip the ball past Avatiu’s goalkeeper.

Before the half time break both teams were already regrouping and pondering how they could score as both teams wouldn’t give up any scoring opportunities.

Flares of brilliance were evident from both teams but it was young strikers Marcello Rairo and Marcus Toru of Avatiu pounding on the Tupapa defence that made the difference. When a break came through for Marcus, he took the chance and slid in that much awaited goal for Avatiu, sending the supporters into a frenzy mid way through the second half.

As the time ticked away Tupapa tried fruitlessly to equalise but Avatiu had a sturdy defence to deny Tupapa the chance.

Tupapa coach/player Dave Milanovich was absent and the Tupapa team had no real direction.

In the other premier men’s match played, Takuvaine won against Matavera 3 to 1 while Nikao Sokattak annihilated Arorangi on their home turf.

- CIFA Media

Full results from last week:

Under 17 Boys: Nikao 4 – Tupapa 2, Matavera 7 – Titikaveka 1. Arorangi vs. Nikao: Under 14 Boys 0-1, Under 15 Girls 1-2, Senior Women 0-3, Premier Men 0-12.

Tupapa vs. Avatiu: Under 14 Boys 0-0, Under 15 Girls 0-0, Senior Women 5-0, Premier Men 0-1.

Takuvaine vs. Matavera: Under 14 Boys 3-1, Senior Women 1-1, Premier Men 3-2.

Photos, page 14