Last week’s Round 4 matches brought a fresh wave of excitement and drama to football fields across Rarotonga. From the youngest players just starting out in the U6 Mix division to the intense battles of the Premier Men’s league, the passion and commitment from all teams were clear. Fans were treated to high-energy games, surprising results, and moments of brilliance that highlight the ongoing growth of football in the Cook Islands.
The youngest players kicked off the weekend with infectious enthusiasm and spirit. Matavera-Ngatangiia FC’s U6 Mix team put on a dominant display, overcoming Tupapa-Maraerenga 7-2 with quick passes and relentless energy. Meanwhile, Avatiu FC and Titikaveka FC fought tooth and nail to a thrilling 3-3 draw, showcasing early glimpses of the skill and determination that will surely blossom as these young talents grow.
The Premier Men’s division continued to impress with high-intensity performances. Tupapa-Maraerenga FC stamped their authority with a commanding 5-0 victory over Matavera-Ngatangiia FC, showcasing their tactical discipline and clinical finishing. The Senior Women’s side mirrored this grit with a narrow but vital 1-0 win, proving their defensive resilience and ability to seize key moments.
In stark contrast, Puaikura FC faced a challenging week, enduring a heavy 0-17 defeat at the hands of the powerhouse Nikao-Sokattak FC in the Premier Men’s match. However, their Senior Women’s team benefited from a default win, keeping their campaign alive. The clash between Avatiu FC and Titikaveka FC in the Premier Men’s division was a tightly contested affair, with Titikaveka edging out a 2-1 victory. Avatiu’s Senior Women’s side, however, bounced back strongly with a commanding 3-0 win.
The U18 Men’s games displayed some of the tournament’s most exciting football. Matavera-Ngatangiia FC’s 3-1 win over Tupapa-Maraerenga FC was hard-fought, with both teams showing tactical awareness and individual flair. Nikao-Sokattak FC continued their dominance with an overwhelming 15-0 victory against Puaikura FC, while Avatiu FC also displayed their attacking prowess in a 14-1 triumph over Titikaveka FC.
The U15 Boys division was marked by some staggering scorelines. Matavera-Ngatangiia’s 4-0 win reinforced their growing strength, Nikao-Sokattak’s 10-0 thrashing of Puaikura left no doubt of their superiority, and Avatiu’s 13-0 dismantling of Titikaveka was a clear statement of intent.
Similarly, the U15 Girls matches showcased dynamic attacking football. Tupapa-Maraerenga’s dominant 9-0 win over Matavera-Ngatangiia and Nikao-Sokattak’s 13-1 victory against Puaikura highlighted the depth of talent in the girls’ game. Titikaveka’s 8-0 triumph over Avatiu demonstrated their capability to control and capitalize on key opportunities.
The younger age groups saw thrilling and competitive matches filled with energy. Tupapa-Maraerenga FC’s U12 Mix team secured a close 2-1 victory over Matavera-Ngatangiia FC, while their U10 Mix squad battled to a 3-3 stalemate. Their U8 Mix team showcased a strong attacking display, winning 6-2. Nikao-Sokattak FC dominated in the U12 Mix (3-0 default win), U10 Mix (7-2), and U8 Mix (11-0) categories against Puaikura FC, further emphasizing their club’s depth.
The clash between Avatiu FC and Titikaveka FC produced a series of tight matches. Avatiu’s U12 Mix side edged out a 2-1 win, but Titikaveka claimed victories in the U10 Mix (5-1) and U8 Mix (7-2), reflecting a competitive rivalry that promises exciting encounters ahead.
Round 4 was a vivid showcase of how football continues to thrive at every level in the Cook Islands. The games were marked by impressive teamwork, individual skill, and the determination to succeed. Whether it was the exuberance of the youngest players or the tactical battles among the Premier Men, each match contributed to the vibrant football culture on the islands.
As teams regroup and prepare for the upcoming rounds, fans can expect more thrilling moments, close contests, and displays of talent that keep the spirit of Cook Islands football alive and growing. With such strong competition and commitment, the future looks bright for football at all levels.
Round 4 Results:
U6 Mix Division
Tupapa-Maraerenga 2 vs Matavera-Ngatangiia FC 7
Avatiu FC 3 vs Titikaveka FC 3
Tupapa-Maraerenga FC vs Matavera-Ngatangiia FC
Premier Men: 5-0
Senior Women’s: 1-0
U18 Men: 1-3
U15 Boys: 0-4
U15 Girls: 9-0
U12 Mix: 2-1
U10 Mix: 3-3
U8 Mix: 6-2
Puaikura FC vs Nikao-Sokattak FC
Premier Men: 0-17
Senior Women’s: 3-0 (won by default)
U18 Men: 0-15
U15 Boys: 0-10
U15 Girls: 1-13
U12 Mix: 0-3 (won by default)
U10 Mix: 7-2
U8 Mix: 11-0
Avatiu FC vs Titikaveka FC
Premier Men: 1-2
Senior Women’s: 3-0
U18 Men: 14-1
U15 Boys: 13-0
U15 Girls: 0-8
U12 Mix: 2-1
U10 Mix: 1-5
U8 Mix: 2-7
CIFA Media
