Second equal Panthers and Eels face off

Last week the Tupapa Panthers clinched a win against the Arorangi Cowboys to remain in second place on the senior A rugby grade points and today they will to do it all against joint second place holders the Avatiu Eels.

The Panthers will host the Eels at Victoria Park in today’s CITC main match of the week.

Both teams play a similar style of rugby with their preference for the free-spirited expansive 15-man game.

This weekend’s matchup will certainly be a test of character as both teams will want to ensure that they gain the best possible advantage during the late stages of the season and build momentum towards the business-end of the season.

When they met in the first round the Eels won 33-23 with the Eels win masterminded by veteran first five-eight Terry Piri supported by their new band of age-grade talent on a wet and slippery Avatiu field.

The Panthers on the other hand will be buoyed with confidence after last week’s heart-stopping 23-22 come-from-behind win against the mighty Cowboys when the Panthers scored 20 points in the last 20 minutes of that game.

As usual the Panthers will look to their leadership group of number 8 and captain Kore Herrmann and their classy utility Turori Matutu for guidance in hopefully leading their team to victory.

On a dry and hot afternoon expect this game to be an open and exciting affair with plenty of tries on the menu.

Predictions are that the team that wins the ruck and maul as well as the pick and go ‘collision area’ and keeps their discipline under control will win this match.

In 2011 the Panthers won both round cup matches against the Eels and so far the Eels are one up on the Panthers and today’s match is sure to be a thrilling encounter.

Tupapa Panthers – Teariki Faireka, Ngametua Ioane, Trevor Arona, Tony Tonovaka, Andy Tautu, William Williams, Metua Taamaru, Kore Herman, Aseli Manuqila, Turori Matutu, Ngatupuna Williams, Lui Moemai, Johnny Marsters, Conrad Piri. Reserves: Pokoina Tepuretu, Teina Savage, Jerry Habaibure.

Avatiu Eels – Sam Pera Jnr, Boaza Atetu, Eddie Tomokino, Mark Charlie, Lui Nicholas, Pearse Numanga, Lee Ponini, Clive Nicholas, Tearoa Bishop, Junior Kiriau, Sirla Pera, Selafi Tovio, Duane Gukisuva, JJ Nicholas, Kunta Tom. Reserves: Apii Rongo, Tumu Pittman, Joe Omao, Ben Maaka, Maka Tereu.

The games at Victoria Park will kick off at 10am with the under 10 age grade match followed by the under 13 game at 11.30pm.

Meanwhile in other games – The Titikaveka Bulls will play their remaining matches against the Arorangi Cowboys and at Nukupure Park – the Ngatangiia Dragons will host the Takuvaine Reds from the Happy Valley.

Full draw on page 13