The Tupapa Panthers premier men’s team finished round one of the Cook Islands Rugby League Rarotonga 13s competition unbeaten and at the top of the standings after a massive win over the weekend.

The opening round featured matches held over five weeks, with each competing team playing five matches.

The Panthers were the only unbeaten side, with four wins and a draw, and were placed on top with nine points.

On Saturday, the Darren Piri-coached side thumped Takuvaine (TKV) Warriors 68-14 at Victoria Park in Tupapa.

The Warriors finished round one winless and are placed at the bottom of the points table with zero points.

The major upset of week five was Titikaveka Bulldogs beating defending champions Avatiu Nikao Eels 32-28 on Friday.

The match between the two teams was billed as a battle for second place, and the Bulldogs prevailed, heading into round two with eight points from four wins and one loss.

The Eels, following their second loss of the season, have slumped to fourth place with five points from two wins and a draw.

The Arorangi Bears, who defeated the Ngatangiia Matavera Sea Eagles 28-10 on Saturday, are placed third with six points from three wins and two losses.

The Sea Eagles are placed fifth with two points from one win and four losses.

Eels coach Clive Nicholas was not impressed with his team’s performance against the Bulldogs and did not mince his words when pointing out what led to the narrow loss.

“It comes down to forwards that don’t wanna listen to playmakers … Attitude is what killed us on Friday,” Nicholas said.

“We got into our rhythm halfway through the game and let our bad attitude get in the way.”

In the lead-up to the Bulldogs clash, Nicholas said round two was crucial because teams would be going all out to secure top four placings.

“Looking forward though, it’s what happens in this second round and top four that gonna really matter,” he said yesterday.

Cook Islands Rugby League competition coordinator Francis Toa said that the round one competition had set a platform for an exciting finish this season.

“Round 1 had some mixed and unexpected results which has made the season very interesting. I am looking forward to what Round 2 will have in store for us all. One thing is apparent – all those who had ample time to prepare are doing well,” Toa said.

She said the competition got off to a “rocky start” in round one but she was pleased with the progress.

“We’ve faced challenges in all areas of the game in Round 1 from players to officials and to volunteers, all who are crucial members of the league family,” Toa said.

“We’ve had to undergo refresher courses to remind people of the roles they play in the game. So a bit of a rocky start, but I think it’s slowly ironing itself out.”

The round two competition will kick off this Friday at Nukupure Park, “the home of the mighty Sea Eagles”.

“We look forward to seeing you all there.”

Results

Premier men’s – Titikaveka Bulldogs 32 Avatiu Nikao Eels 28, Ngatangiia Matavera Sea Eagles 10 Arorangi Bears 28, Tupapa Panthers 68 TKV Warriors 14. Women – Mix 1 Red 26 Mix 2 Purple 22.