Arorangi Bears’ fairy tale run in the Cook Islands Rugby League 13s competition continues with another huge win in the premier men’s division over the weekend.

After upsetting defending champions Tupapa Panthers a fortnight ago, the Bears shocked Avatiu Nikao Eels at Raemaru Park in Arorangi on Saturday.

Attended by a big crowd, the highly anticipated match lived up to expectations with both teams bringing their “A-game” to the battle.

Both teams scored early then traded sets for 10 minutes before the Bobby Hansen-coached Bears took control of the match and scored consecutive tries to lead 24-6.

But the Clive Nicholas-coached Eels were not giving up that easily and bounced back to cushion the deficit to 24-18 at the break.

The second spell was an intense one with both teams battling tooth and nail for possession and opportunities.

However the Bears managed to find gaps and cut the ball wide to extend their lead, and ultimately win the match 36-26.

The Bears’ win has opened the top three race especially after the Panthers’ thumping 100-10 win over the winless Titikaveka Bulldogs on Friday at Teimurimotia Park.

The Darren Piri-coached Panthers led 54-4 at the break before putting on another smashing performance in the second spell to record the big win.