Avatiu Nikao Eels finished round one of the Cook Islands Rugby League Rarotonga League 13s premier men’s competition on top.

The second round of the weekly competition kicks off this afternoon at Victoria Park in Tupapa.

The Eels, who have a bye this weekend, made a great start to their 2024 season with three straight wins. They went down to Ngatangiia Matavera Sea Eagles 18-22 in their first loss at Nukupure Park in Ngatangiia on Saturday.

The Clive Nicholas-coached side defeated defending champions Arorangi Bears 30-8 before beating Tupapa Panthers 38-22 and Titikaveka Bulldogs 52-18.

Despite the loss to the Sea Eagles, the Eels finished round one on six points from three wins and a loss.

Former champions Panthers won two matches and lost two, including their upset loss to the Bulldogs in week two, and are placed second on the points table with four points.

The Sea Eagles and the Bears have also amassed four points each but are down in points difference.

The Sea Eagles, after their major win against the Eels last weekend, are placed third with two wins and two losses. The Bears are fourth with a similar win and loss record.

The Bulldogs are at the bottom of the table with only a win and two points.

The Bulldogs will take on neighbours the Sea Eagles this afternoon at Victoria Park. When the two teams met in round one at the same venue, the Sea Eagles won 44-16.

Both teams will be eyeing wins to improve on their standings and chances of making the finals.

In the other premier men’s match to be played tomorrow, the Panthers will host the Bears. In the women’s clash tomorrow, Lady Panthers will play Lady Bears.

Lady Bulldogs lead the women’s competition followed by Lady Panthers.

Fixtures

Today - 5pm Titikaveka Bulldogs-Ngatangiia Matavera Sea Eagles. Tomorrow - 1.45pm U14 Sea Eagles-Tupapa Panthers, 2.45pm U16 Sea Eagles-Panthers, 4pm Senior Women Lady Bears-Lady Panthers, 5pm Premier Men Arorangi Bears-Tupapa Panthers.