Raemaru Park in Arorangi will host the second double header of the 2023 Cook Islands Rugby League 13s competition this afternoon.

In the first premier men’s match, Avatiu Nikao Eels will take on Ngatangiia Matavera Sea Eagles at 3pm.

The Clive Nicholas-coached Eels were on a bye last week following their first defeat of the season after going down to Tupapa Panthers in week one of round two. The Panthers defeated the Eels 34-12.

The break would have provided the Eels with an opportunity to iron out the areas of concern before the Sea Eagles encounter.

The Eels thumped the Sea Eagles 64-0 when the two teams met in round one at Nukupure Park on February 25.

In the feature premier men’s clash this afternoon, hosts Arorangi Bears will take on competition leaders Panthers.

The Darren Piri-coached Panthers will be going all out for win in order to maintain their lead over the Eels who have a game in hand.

Fixtures

Raemaru Park, Arorangi – 9am Juniors, 10.30am U14 Bears-Panthers, 11.30am U14 Sea Eagles-Eels, 12.30pm U16 Panthers-Eels, 1.30pm U19 Bears-Panthers, 3pm Premier Men Sea Eagles-Eels, 4.30pm Premier Men Bears-Panthers