The sun and blue skies made an appearance on Saturday and it was all go for the Kia Orana Youth Football Festival.

CIFA Complex saw three matches played in the U18s women and men’s Pool A, while Takitumu School hosted two Pool B matches.

With the CIFA complex field two under water due to heavy rain last week, it wasn’t going to stop the opening round of the Football Festival. Takitumu School field was designated as backup which kept two matches on schedule.
The U18 women’s teams took the field first at both venues. Spectators arrived to watch as Atiu took on Avatiu. At Takitumu School field, Rarotonga rivals Tupapa Maraerenga batted Puaikura.

The second match saw more spectators arrive at both fields as the grandstand at the CIFA complex filled, to watch Titikaveka U18 women take on Aitutaki. At Takitumu School, the first match for the U18 men’s kicked off with Tupapa Maraerenga playing off against Avatiu
The final match on day one was played at the CIFA Complex between Mauke and Aitutaki, and although the game was behind schedule, it was a game worth watching. With a large crowd of support for both teams, the cheers brought more excitement to the game.

In Pool A U18 women’s match, Avatiu thumped Atiu 15-0 while Aitutaki defeated Titikaveka 4-0. Mauke beat Aitutaki 3-1 in the U18 men’s match.

In Pool B U18 women’s clash, Puaikura and Tupapa Maraerenga match ended in a 1-all draw and Tupapa Maraerenga beat Avatiu 5-0 in U18 men’s match.
Mangaia will make their debut in the tournament on Monday (today). There will be five more games held in the U18 women and men’s divisions. These games will be held at both the CIFA Complex and Takitumu School Field.
CIFA vice president Moeroa Tamangaro said: “This tournament is a stepping stone for players to gain and develop new skills and talent, a chance for these young men and women to compete against new competitors. A tournament where they can showcase their performance, energy and confidence in football. All games were intense on Saturday, filled with eager participants doing their best to take the win and I am proud of all the youth taking part in this tournament.”

“Come through, support your favourite team or join the excitement and cheer on all participants.”

• CIFA Media

Fixtures CIFA Complex – 12:00 pm, Pool B, U18 Women Tupapa Maraerenga vs Mangaia, 1:25pm, Pool B, U18 Men Tupapa Maraerenga vs Mangaia. Games at Takitumu School – 12:00pm, Pool A, U18 Women Atiu vs Aitutaki, 1:25pm, Pool A, U18 Women Avatiu vs Titikaveka, 2:50pm, Pool A, U18 Men Aitutaki vs Atiu.