Arorangi Bears are eyeing to end Tupapa Panthers’ unbeaten streak in the Cook Islands Rugby League Rarotonga Club 13s competition this afternoon at Aretere Park in Avatiu.

Last week, the Bears had a tough battle against Titikaveka Bulldogs but won 30-22 while the unbeaten Panthers thumped the Ngatangiia Matavera Sea Eagles 49-8.

The win against the Bulldogs, after going down to them in round one, was a major boost for the Bears, but that wouldn’t carry much weight in today’s battle as the side expects an intense match against the Panthers.

Bears representative Romaric Purua said the Bulldogs clash was a tough one and they were lucky to come away with the win.

Purua said they had some key areas they needed to fine-tune before their clash against the Panthers today.

“The Panthers are a strong and dangerous team, they can strike from anywhere on the field,” Purua said.

“Our defence, discipline, and ball retention are crucial if we are to stand a chance of beating them. We expect this game to be physical and intense.”

Purua earlier said that they have been working on their discipline.

At the end of Round 1 two weeks ago, the Bears were in third place on the points table, with the Panthers leading and the Bulldogs in second.

In the other premier men’s match today, defending champions Avatiu Nikao Eels will take on the Ngatangiia/Matavera Sea Eagles.

Last week, the Eels defeated the Takuvaine Warriors 34–6.

In the Women’s 9s Competition, the two teams, the tough Lady Bears and Lady Panthers, will face again today. Last week, the Lady Bears defeated the Lady Panthers 16-6 in their first official match.

Fixtures

Aretere Park in Avatiu:  U14 Eels vs Sea Eagles 11.45am; U16 Eels Vs Sea Eagles 12.45pm; U19 Eels vs Sea Eagles 1.45pm; Women’s 9s: Bears vs Panthers 3pm; Men’s Bears vs panthers 3.30pm; Eels vs Sea Eagles 5pm.