Arorangi Bears stunned the minor premiership holders Avatiu Nikao Eels on Saturday to book their place in the Cook Islands Rugby League 13s premier men’s final this weekend.

In the semi-final held at Tupapa’s Victoria Park, the Bobby Hansen-coached Bears defeated Clive Nicholas’ Eels 34-20 to book a date with the defending champions Tupapa Panthers this Saturday.

The women’s final to be held on Friday will also see Lady Bears taking on Lady Panthers after the latter defeated Lady Eels 14-8 in the semis on Friday last week.

In the men’s final, the Bears started mounting their attack from the opening whistle, putting a lot of pressure on the Eels defence.

However the side was unable to capitalise on their opportunities and convert them into points as the scrambling Eels worked hard to organise themselves.

In a close and exciting first half, the Bears led 18-10.

Both teams exchanged tries in the second spell as the Bears extended their lead to 28-20 before the Eels lost composure.

The side lost a player to red card and another in the sin bin giving the Bears an opportunity to seal the win. The Bears scored in the last minute to win the match 34-20.