The final weekly rounds of the Cook Islands Rugby League Rarotonga 13s competition have concluded with a flourish, leaving fans electrified as the top four premier men’s teams solidified their positions for the upcoming playoff rounds.

In a series of gripping encounters over the weekend, teams battled fiercely, leaving no stone unturned in their quest for supremacy on the field.

The excitement began on Friday as the defending champions Arorangi Bears clashed with the Titikaveka Bulldogs in a tense encounter at Nukupure Park in Muri. With a narrow margin, the Bears emerged victorious with a final score of 20-18, effectively sealing their spot in the top four standings on third with eight points. It was a hard-fought battle that showcased the determination and skill of both teams, but in the end, it was the Bears who prevailed, signalling their intent to contend for the championship title.

However, the most anticipated match of the week unfolded on Saturday, pitting the hosts Ngatangiia Matavera Sea Eagles against the Avatiu Nikao Eels in a clash of titans. The Eels were out to finish on top spot in the league standings, displacing the Tupapa Panthers from their narrow one-point lead, and retain the Minor Premiership title. The Sea Eagles displayed formidable defence, keeping the Eels on their toes throughout the game.

Despite the relentless pressure, the Eels, under the guidance of their coach Clive Nicholas, exhibited resilience and tactical skill, continuously regrouping to counter the soaring tactics of the Sea Eagles.

The game witnessed moments of intense back-and-forth action, with the Sea Eagles seemingly gaining the upper hand in the second half.

However, the Eels refused to be shaken, demonstrating resolute fortitude. In a pivotal moment, the Eels managed to secure a crucial try, swinging the momentum in their favour. With time ticking away, the Eels emerged triumphant with a final score of 26-18, securing a decisive victory and asserting their dominance in the league.

The win ensured they retained the Minor Premiership title and head into this week’s playoffs as the top favourites. The Sea Eagles finished on fourth spot.

“We came with a holistic approach having discipline, faith and belief in our attack structures,” said Nicholas.

Tactically, Nicholas also spoke about understanding the structure of the Sea Eagles team as a strategy to win. Having coached three of their most formidable players, Daniel Toa and his nephews in the past, Nicholas knew he was in for havoc, for these players would wreck down any opposition if not strategically engaged upon. Nicholas focused his defences around these players and proved successful in the end.

In the junior divisions, excitement continued to abound as the Panthers asserted their dominance. In the under-14 category, the Panthers delivered a commanding performance, overpowering the Sea Eagles with a resounding 32-6 victory. Meanwhile, the under-16 matchup between the Panthers and the Sea Eagles provided spectators with a thrilling spectacle. In an exciting playoff, the Sea Eagles rallied from behind, ultimately clinching a 42-18 victory over the Panthers.