Sharks rise up at home

Aitutaki Sharks, Avatiu Eels and Ngatangiia Sea Eagles were the weekend’s rugby league winners with the Sharks stunning the Panthers with a 26-24 defeat.

On home soil, the Sharks meant business from the get go dealing the first surprise to the Panthers with two quick tries to lead the game 10-0 just 10 minutes into the game.

The early tries by the host sparked the visiting Panthers into action and at the half time break, the Panthers had a comfortable lead over the Sharks 24-10.

Back in the second spell – the action was all the Sharks way as they clawed their way back into the game. With pure determination and solid support from the island, the Sharks edged out the Panthers 26-24.

On Rarotonga a tense match was held at Raemaru Park with both sides strong on defence.

But it was the Sea Eagles that played their cards right and a final penalty kick broke the 10-all tie sealing the win for the Eagles.

And although the Eagles had won the match – players from both sides continued to rumble in an ugly brawl that will no doubt see the league association judicial panel hand down appropriate punishment for the on-field violence.

Meanwhile at the Avatiu Swamp – the top of the table team met with the Takuvaine Warriors who despite a valiant performance were unable to contain the Eels and they ran away with the win 30-18.