Defending champions Tupapa Panthers were humbled by arch-rivals Avatiu Nikao Eels in the opening round of the Cook Islands Rugby League 13s competition over the weekend.

The resurgent Eels coached by Albert Nicholas thumped Darren Piri-coached Panthers 54-22 at the Aretere Park in Avatiu on Saturday.

The two teams were the finalists in last year’s competition where the Panthers won, retaining the domestic league title.

However on Saturday, hosts Eels were a much better side, looking organised in defence and lethal in attack. They made a good start, scoring the opening try but the Panthers led by their speedster Peniasi Dakuwaqa hit back before the Eels took control of the match and ran away with the big win.

Panthers coach Piri on Friday said they were facing challenges getting the players together for training in lead up to round one game.

“We managed to put a team together for this match. But it will be a testing point for us to see where we are, also testing the mentality of the players and what we need to work on for the remainder of the season,” Piri earlier said.

In the other premier men’s match played on Friday, Ngatangiia Matavera Sea Eagles smashed Titikaveka Bulldogs 58-6.

In the lone women’s match also played on Friday, Lady Panthers defeated Lady Eels 40-10.

-More in tomorrow’s edition.

Results

U19s: Eels vs Panthers 12-10 to Eels; U19s: Sea Eagles vs Bears 32-4 to Bears, U16s: Eels vs Panthers 12-10 to Eels; Sea Eagles vs Bears 34-4 to Bears.