Playing today for the last spot in the semifinal of the premier men’s division is Puaikura and Matavera-Ngatangiia.
Puaikura’s final round performance was a statement of what is to be expected of the side in the knockouts when they took down Titikaveka 8 goals to 1. Today they play Matavera, who has put them under some pressure in each match they’ve played, for the last spot in the semifinals to be played next week.
Puaikura’s Albert Taru picked up a stunning hat-trick against Titikaveka last week and has been in good form all season. He is likely to play a crucial role for his side in the midfield again and might even pull off some more fantastic goals to hopefully help his side move on to the semifinals.
Meanwhile in the Matavera camp, head coach, Alan Taylor says his side needs to be clinical up front and put their chances away. “We have done well against Puaikura this season so we take confidence from that, but Puaikura has had a very strong end to the season. We will need to be strong and organised in defence and take our opportunities to score when they arise. If we can get our strongest team on the pitch and compete for 90 minutes we have shown we are a match for any team.”
Matavera’s senior player’s, Paul Van-Eijk and John Pareanga, will need to guide their younger players against a seasoned Puaikura side to give themselves a good chance at taking that last semifinal spot.
In the senior women’s division Puaikura is drawn to play Nikao Sokattak at 2:30pm, the Titikaveka and Nikao Sokattak U14 boys will play at 1:30pm and the Matavera-Ngatangiia and Nikao Sokattak U14 girls will play at 12:30pm.
FIXTURES:
Saturday 7thDecember, at the CIFA complex, Matavera
12.30pm Under 14 Girls. Matavera FC vs Nikao Sokattak FC
Ref: Kura Smith Assist: Ua Savage, Penina Kauke
1.30pm Under 14 Boys. Titikaveka FC vs Nikao Sokattak FC
Ref: Robert Savage Assist:Junior Savage, Lai Gukisuva
2.30pm Senior Women. Puaikura FC vs Nikao Sokattak
Ref: Paul Lynch Assist: Mata Iroa, Tahiri Elikana
4.00pm Premier Men. Puaikura FC vs Matavera FC
Ref: Maara Kaukura Assist: Teretia Teinaki, Tehainnah Tatuava
