Nothing certain in mid-week clash

The first under 16 Powerade Challenge will be played today at Raemaru Park between current trophy holders the Arorangi Cowboys and the first challenger of the 2011 season, the Takuvaine Reds.

During last years challenge, the Cowboys were able to defeat 2009 trophy holders the Tupapa Panthers before they just managed to survive the last challenge in 2010 against a very strong Avatiu Eels team to retain the Powerade trophy.

The Cowboys under 16 pack enjoyed victory last weekend with a 24-10 victory against the Eels. Meanwhile the Reds suffered a 12-24 defeat at the hands of the Ngatangiia-Matavera Dragons.

But based on previous encounters, these mid-week challenges are sometimes a different kettle of fish.

Players that have been in outstanding form lately for the Cowboys have been Mitiaro first 5/8 Tereinga Murare, utility backs Rory Ngaata and Jac Love and hard-working locks William Boller and Andre Iro.

In the Reds camp watch for energetic loose forwards Maui Siulepa and Bishop Bailey plus utility backs Ari Arioka and brothers Jimmy and Boy Poila.

Get to Raemaru Park today and watch tomorrows stars in action.

Todays match will be played at the Arorangi Field and will kick-off at 4.30pm.

Thank you to Powerade and local sporting legend George George for your continued sponsorship of this mid-week competition which is great for local development.

Under 16 Cowboys Eric Katoa, Rima Tamarua, Terua Glassie, Andre Iro, William Boller, Yves Obeda, Nuka Mokoroa, ONeil Rongo, BJ Heather, Tereinga Murare, Rory Ngataa(Capt.), Tokoiva George, Hamish Tamariki, Gavin Halatau, Jac Love.

Under 16 Reds Thomas Potoru, Jason Potoru, Roi Iona, William Charlie, Strickland Tangimetua, Maui Siulepa, Bishop Bailey, Tamatoa Matai, Ali Arioka, Boy Poila, Jimmy Poila, Rouru Teiotu, Kiri Samania, Pati Tangimetua, Iosefo Samania.

Match referees will be Ben Koteka assisted by touch judges Poso Ngaroi and Vania Tou.

Good luck to both teams.