Round 9 of the 2024 Rarotonga Round Cup was packed with excitement as teams across all divisions left everything on the field, delivering thrilling moments and some unexpected results. Fans were treated to intense battles, showcasing the competitiveness and passion of this year’s competition.
At Victoria Park, Tupapa Maraerenga faced off against Avatiu in a fiercely competitive Premier Men’s match. Tupapa controlled much of the early possession, creating several promising opportunities. It was Tuffy Tuakana that opened the scoring for Tupapa Maraerenga in the 20th minute with the assist of Paavo Mustonen. Tupapa maintained their composure and pressed forward. Their persistence paid off when young talent Kima Webb, showing remarkable control, dribbled past two defenders before coolly slotting the ball into the net.
The second half ramped up the intensity as Avatiu sought to turn the tide. Avatiu held possession of the ball dominating through Tupapa’s backline giving them various opportunities to score but was not able to get through the hands of goalkeeper Mana Pierre. Avatiu’s captain ‘James Nand’ showed strong commitment as a left-wing striker setting up potential goals for his team. Oldest of the Webb brothers ‘Tahitoa Webb’ placed another point on the scoreboard for Tupapa. Minutes after that, a perfectly timed through ball from Grover Harmon found Marcus Gibbens, who skillfully outpaced the defence and took a shot that was blocked by Avatiu’s goalkeeper, however being at the right place and the right time Reiya Shibuya bore fruit by scoring an almost promising goal. Tahitoa Webb scored once again in the 70th minute and Grover Harmon scored their final goal making it 6-0 win to Tupapa. Avatiu showed tremendous efforts in how they played together as a team and how composed they were throughout the match.
Meanwhile, at the CIFA Complex on Friday, Nikao Sokattack took on Puaikura FC in what proved to be a tightly contested Premier Men’s match. Nikao opened the scoring in the first half, with Winton Kiria finding the back of the net after a well-worked team play. Puaikura, eager to keep their fans happy, responded with determination as Joseph Tuaputa placed their first goal in the match. The Nikao team came hungry to win as they showed outstanding performance by scoring another 3 goals in the first half. Daniel Taokia from Puaikura stepped up by scoring another goal and Tamatoa Tuariki scored their final goal in the second half. Nikao came back strong scoring a decisive goal by Number 7 ‘Narneet Chand’ that gave Nikao a 5-3 victory. The match was a battle of nerves and precision, with both teams creating chances.
Over at the Teimurimotia Park on Saturday, Titikaveka FC opened up the scoreboard after a young talented player Temarii Jubilee scored a goal 5 minutes into the game. Both teams worked hard to battle through the match and it wasn’t until the second half, Matavera sought for a draw making it 1-1.
In the Senior Women’s division, Tupapa Maraerenga and Avatiu played out a tense match. Both teams found it hard to score in the first half as their devensive backline showed strong performance. Tupapa, however, gradually found their rhythm and put Avatiu under consistent pressure for much of the second half. A penalty in the box was given to Tupapa in the last crucial minutes. Elizabeth Harmon stepped up to the plate and calmly slotted the ball to the back of the net. Both teams gave it their all in the final minutes, but a winner proved elusive, and the match ended with 1-0 to Tupapa Maraerenga..
Similar to Tupapa Maraerenga and Avatiu FC match in the Senior Women’s division, Titikaveka cruised to a 1-0 victory over Matavera- Ngatangiia. Both teams found it hard to score in the first half as their devensive backline showed strong performance. Titikaveka, however, gradually found their rhythm and put Matavera under consistent pressure for much of the second half. Matavera-Ngatangiia had a few chances but were unable to break down Titikaveka’s solid defense. Meanwhile, Titikaveka continued their strong form on Saturday, securing a 1-0 win over Matavera. Goal from Edwina Piri highlighted their attacking prowess, keeping them in contention for the top spot.
As the season progresses, the competition is heating up, with teams pushing harder each week to secure valuable points in the 2024 Rarotonga Round Cup. With plenty of football still to be played, fans can look forward to more thrilling matches and shifting dynamics as the race for the title intensifies.
