Round 13 of the 2024 Rarotonga Round Cup delivered an action-packed weekend, showcasing intense rivalries, standout performances, and dramatic turns across all divisions. From high-scoring battles to tactical masterclasses, this round had something for every football fan, reaffirming the deep passion and competitive spirit of Rarotonga’s football scene. As the tournament nears its final stages, the stakes are getting higher, and each match brings new surprises and excitement.
The marquee match of the weekend saw Puaikura FC take on Tupapa Maraerenga FC at Raemaru Park, a fixture that promised fireworks and did not disappoint. From the opening whistle, it was clear that both teams were determined to claim all three points, with Tupapa Maraerenga asserting their dominance early on.
The match turned into a one-sided affair, with Tupapa Maraerenga showcasing their superior quality in a commanding 9-1 victory. The team’s high-energy attack overwhelmed Puaikura, and it was Marcus Gibbens who stole the show with a clinical hat trick. His ability to find space and finish with precision was a testament to his sharp instincts in front of goal. Adding to the offensive onslaught, John Noovao also played a key role, bagging two goals and contributing to the team’s fluid attacking movements.
Tupapa’s midfield was the engine that drove their relentless attack. Quick, incisive passing between the midfielders and wide forwards created gaps in Puaikura’s defense that were exploited with devastating effect. The ball movement was swift, and the combination play between Gibbens, Noovao, and the other attacking players kept Puaikura’s backline on edge throughout the match.
Despite being outclassed, Puaikura FC never stopped fighting. They displayed admirable resilience and were rewarded with a goal late in the second half. A clever through ball from Aki Tairi found Tamatoa Matutu, who made a perfectly timed run into the box and finished with composure. The goal gave the Puaikura fans something to cheer about, though it did little to change the course of the match. Tupapa held firm and continued to create scoring opportunities, with their pressing game keeping Puaikura’s defense under constant pressure.
By the final whistle, Tupapa Maraerenga had cemented their 9-1 victory, continuing their impressive form in the tournament and proving why they are among the favorites to win the championship.
The Senior Women’s match between Puaikura FC and Tupapa Maraerenga FC was another high-intensity contest. Both teams were eager to claim victory, knowing that every point matters in the race for the championship.
Tupapa Maraerenga’s Jan-Marie Taia was the standout player, scoring two crucial goals that proved to be the difference in this hard-fought match. Her first goal came after a well-timed run and a composed finish, while her second demonstrated her technical ability, converting a through ball with finesse to double Tupapa’s advantage.
Puaikura FC, however, was far from out of the contest. Despite the two-goal deficit, they fought back with intensity and creativity. A key moment came in the second half when Esther Potoru played a perfectly weighted ball to Te-Upoko Tuariki, who showed great composure to finish and pull one back for Puaikura. The goal sparked hope for the Puaikura faithful, but their efforts to equalize were thwarted by a resolute Tupapa defense, led by an inspired performance from goalkeeper Rianna Pepe.
Throughout the match, Tupapa’s defense stood strong, with Pepe making several key saves to keep her team’s slender lead intact. Despite late pressure from Puaikura FC, Tupapa managed to hold on to their 2-1 lead, securing an important win that keeps them in the title race.
At the CIFA Complex on Thursday and Friday, another Premier Men’s clash took place between Matavera-Ngatangiia FC and Avatiu FC. The match lived up to expectations, with Matavera coming out on top in a thrilling encounter that ended 7-1 in their favor.
Matavera’s attacking play was on full display as they sliced through Avatiu’s defense with quick, decisive movements. Julius David was the first to find the back of the net, opening the scoring for Matavera after a well-worked team move. The team showed no signs of slowing down, with additional goals coming from Julius David, Terepai Hetet, and Kakari Paerau. Each goal was a product of clever build-up play and sharp finishes.
Avatiu FC, though clearly outmatched, didn’t give up. They kept pushing forward and were rewarded with a penalty in the second half, converted by Tione Nand, who calmly slotted it home. However, the goal only provided a brief moment of hope, as Matavera responded with more attacking pressure, eventually securing their 7-1 victory.
The Senior Women’s match between Matavera-Ngatangiia FC and Avatiu FC was an exciting contest, with Matavera edging out Avatiu 1-0 in a tightly contested affair. The game was closely fought, but the match’s only goal came from Keziah Holmes, who scored after a well-executed pass from Manine Lynch.
Matavera’s defense remained resolute throughout the match, keeping Avatiu at bay. Despite some strong attacking efforts from Avatiu, including a few close chances late in the game, Matavera’s backline held firm, ensuring they walked away with the three points.
At Titikaveka Field, Nikao Sokattak faced Titikaveka FC in a Premier Men’s match that was a tactical battle of nerves. Both teams displayed strong defensive setups, making it difficult for either side to create clear-cut chances.
Nikao Sokattak took the lead with two goals from Rangi Moore, who scored one in each half. His first was a well-taken strike from outside the box, and the second came from a clinical finish inside the penalty area. Titikaveka FC, not to be outdone, responded with a goal from Jubilee Jubilee, who found the back of the net with a composed finish in the second half.
Despite their best efforts to push for an equalizer, Titikaveka FC couldn’t break through Nikao’s defense. The match ended 3-1 in favor of Nikao Sokattak, who earned a crucial victory.
In the Senior Women’s match, Titikaveka FC delivered a dominant 3-0 victory over Nikao Sokattak FC, with Maine Teaka stealing the spotlight with a superb hat trick. Her performance was clinical, scoring all three goals with precision and composure.
Nikao Sokattak fought hard, attempting to disrupt Titikaveka’s rhythm with a high press and quick counterattacks, but they were unable to break through the well-organized defense of Titikaveka FC. Despite several attempts, Nikaocouldn’t convert their chances, and Titikaveka continued to press, securing a comfortable win that showcased their attacking flair and defensive solidity.
Round 13 of the 2024 Rarotonga Round Cup has certainly lived up to expectations, with exhilarating football on display across all divisions. From the high-scoring Premier Men’s matches to the tightly contested Senior Women’s battles, the weekend was filled with drama, skill, and emotion.
The level of talent and competitiveness shown by every team highlights the passion for football in Rarotonga, with players, coaches, and fans all contributing to the vibrant atmosphere.
With more thrilling football yet to come, fans can look forward to more intense clashes as teams continue to battle for supremacy in the Rarotonga Round Cup. The stakes are higher than ever, and every match feels like a must-win as the tournament moves closer to its final stages. The journey is far from over, and the excitement is only just beginning.
Round 13 Results are as follows:
Under 6 Mix
Puaikura 9 vs 1 Tupapa-Maraerenga
Avatiu 0 vs 1 Titikaveka
Titikaveka vs Nikao Sokattak
Premier Mens 1-3
Senior Womens 3-0
U18 Mens 4-0
U15 Girls 2-1
U15 Boys 0-4
U12 Mix 0-2
U10 Mix 7-0
U8 Mix 30-0
Matavera-Ngatangiia vs Avatiu
Premier Mens 7-1
Senior Womens 1-0
U18 Mens 1-6
U15 Girls 3-0
U15 Boys 1-5
U12 Mix 3-2
U10 Mix 7-2
U8 Mix 1-7
Puaikura vs Tupapa-Maraerenga
Premier Mens 1-9
Senior Womens 1-2
U18 Mens 0-14
U15 Girls 0-1
U15 Boys 5-0
U12 Mix 0-11
U10 Mix 5-2
U8 Mix 5-3
CIFA Media
