The Lady Eels are set to make their debut in the domestic rugby league 13s competition against Lady Panthers at Aretere Park this afternoon.

The women’s rugby league made its debut in the weekly competition last year. Initially three clubs – defending champions Lady Bulldogs, Lady Panthers and Lady Bears – were to feature in this year’s competition.

Lady Eels coach Daniel Ahau said they had no plans to field a women’s team until young players from the village came together, showing interest to play in the competition.

“We have been preparing for two weeks, this is our second week. Initially when the young players showed interest, we had just a few of them but the numbers grew and now we got 20 plus players attending training,” Ahau said.

“We have got a couple of experienced players, very fortunate that they came down to help but a lot of our players are first timers who are trying to get to know the game a little bit more and we are providing that opportunity for them.”

The Eels are wary of the high-flying Panthers who suffered a close loss in last year’s final against the Bulldogs.

Ahau is realistic of their chances in their opening match, fully aware of the experience and quality of the opponent they are facing.

“Going into this game, I suppose I want the players to enjoy the experience and have fun with it and if it comes our way then that’s bonus for us.

“These young players have shown a lot of enthusiasm and the effort they have put in these two weeks is outstanding. We’re just hoping for a good game. We are also asking our supporters to come one, come all to support the girls.”

The Lady Eels versus the Lady Panthers match will kick off at 5pm.

Fixtures

Today: 5pm Prems Bulldogs-Sea Eagles at Teimurimotia Park; 5pm Women’s Eels-Panthers at Aretere Park.

Tomorrow: Aretere Park – 11am U12 Eels-Panthers, 11am U10 Eels-Panthers (half fields), 12pm U14 Eels-Panthers, 1pm U16 Eels-Panthers, 2pm U19.

Eels-Panthers, 3.30pm Reserves Eels-Panthers, 5pm Prems Eels-Panthers; Nukupure Park – 12pm U10 Sea Eagles-Bears, 12pm U12 Sea Eagles-Bears, 1pm U14 Sea Eagles-Bears, 2pm U16 Sea Eagles-Bears, 3pm U19 Sea Eagles-Bears. Bye: Women’s Bulldogs/Bears. Reserves – Bears.