The week nine of Cook Islands Rugby League Rarotonga 13s competition brought intense clashes and thrilling moments as teams battled it out for crucial wins, aiming to solidify their positions in the league table.

From impressive displays of skill to closely contested matches, the weekend provided fans with plenty of excitement.

The action kicked off on Friday with a showdown between the Titikaveka Bulldogs and the Avatiu Nikao Eels at Teimurimotia Park in Titikaveka.

Despite a strong effort from the Bulldogs, they were unable to overcome the determined Eels, who had suffered a setback in week eight but came back with a vengeance. It was a hard-fought contest, but the Eels emerged victorious, showcasing their resilience and determination on the field. Full time score was 32-14 in favour of the Eels.

Saturday’s premier match featured the Ngatangiia Matavera Sea Eagles facing off against the formidable Tupapa Panthers. In a display of outstanding rugby league skill, the Sea Eagles demonstrated both attacking flair and defensive solidity against the mighty Panthers.

Despite the Panthers’ confidence, they were met with fierce resistance from the soaring Sea Eagles, who took the lead in the second half and held on until the final minutes of the game.

A late penalty kick by the Panthers secured a draw, with the final scores locked at 18-18. It was a thrilling encounter that kept fans on the edge of their seats until the very end.

The senior women’s game was equally captivating with the Lady Bears putting up a strong fight against the Lady Panthers.

Despite their best efforts, the Lady Bears were unable to close the gap entirely, with the Lady Panthers ultimately prevailing with a score of 14-6. The victory propelled the Panthers to the top of the table, securing their place in the final and highlighting their dominance in the competition.

In the juniors under-16 grade, the Sea Eagles delivered a commanding performance against the Junior Panthers, securing a massive victory 40-6. The Junior Sea Eagles showcased their talent and determination, setting their sights on maintaining their winning streak as the season progresses.

Meanwhile, in the under-14 grade, the Panther cubs emerged triumphant against the Sea Eagles, clinching a convincing win with a full-time score of 34-14. It was a strong showing from the Panther cubs, underscoring their potential and adding another impressive performance to their season record.

As week nine draws to a close, the competition remains fierce and unpredictable. With each match bringing new challenges and opportunities for teams to showcase their skills, fans can expect more thrilling encounters in the weeks ahead.