Today, the CIFA Complex will be buzzing with excitement as Tupapa-Maraerenga FC takes on Titikaveka FC in the 2024 Rarotonga Round Cup Competition.
This match is pivotal for both the Premier Men’s and Senior Women’s divisions, while the youth teams will also compete, adding to the day’s excitement. At the same time, Nikao Sokattak FC will host Matavera-Ngatangiia FC at Nikao Field, ensuring a full day of football for local fans.
Match Schedule
The fixtures at both venues kick off at 11:15 a.m. with the Under-15 Boys, followed by the Under-15 Girls at 12:15 p.m., the Under-18 Men at 1:15 p.m., Senior Women at 2:40 p.m., and culminating with the Premier Men at 4:20 p.m.
CIFA Complex: Tupapa-Maraerenga FC vs. Titikaveka FC
Premier Men – 4:20 p.m.
Tupapa Maraerenga leads the Premier division with 29 points, while Titikaveka FC, in sixth place with 7 points, seeks to climb the standings. Tupapa is coming off a dominant 5-1 victory against Matavera, while Titikaveka hopes to build on their surprising 1-0 win against Puaikura. Both teams are eager to solidify their positions in this fiercely competitive tournament.
Tupapa has showcased strength in both attack and defense this season. Teina Savage has been essential in organizing the backline, while Marcus Gibbens contributes not only defensively but also by creating attacking opportunities from the left flank. In midfield, Grover Harmon and Henry McKenzie control the pace, linking play effectively to forwards Campbell Best and Tuffy Ngametua, who have been lethal in front of goal.
On the other hand, Titikaveka is steadily improving, with key players like Bill Tangapiri and Nadave Tereapii crucial for creating chances for forwards Tangi Akava and rising star Sisa Pickering. Despite being lower in the standings, Titikaveka has shown resilience, and their midfield duo of Rua Oti and Tangapiri will be vital in controlling the game and generating scoring opportunities.
This matchup promises a competitive clash, pitting Tupapa’s clinical possession game against Titikaveka’s high-tempo play.
Senior Women – 2:40 p.m.
In the Senior Women’s division, Tupapa-Maraerenga, leading with 26 points, faces third-place Titikaveka, who are currently at 17 points. Both teams come into this match with momentum from recent wins, making for an intriguing encounter.
Titikaveka’s Edwina Matenga and Penina Katuke have been standout performers. Matenga’s leadership and work rate, combined with Katuke’s attacking drive, are essential for keeping the team competitive. Titikaveka aims to disrupt Tupapa’s rhythm and climb the table with a strong performance.
Tupapa’s midfield will be pivotal in dictating the game’s tempo, looking to maintain possession and exploit any gaps in Titikaveka’s defense. Defenders Claudean Robati and Tupou Brogan will be crucial in preserving Tupapa’s defensive solidity throughout the match.
With both teams riding the momentum of recent victories, expect a tactical battle where possession play meets pressure tactics, making the captains’ roles critical in guiding their teams.
Nikao Field: Nikao Sokattak FC vs. Matavera-Ngatangiia FC
Premier Men – 4:20 p.m
Nikao Sokattak is eager to bounce back from a 1-1 draw against Avatiu. Defenders Stephen Willis and Nia Remuera will be key in shoring up the defense. Midfielders Owenne Matapo and Atu Putere need to manage the game’s tempo and create scoring opportunities to break through Matavera’s defense.
Matavera-Ngatangiia, sitting 11 points behind Tupapa with 18 points, seeks to challenge for the top spots. After a heavy 5-1 loss to Tupapa, Matavera has shown improvement recently. Midfielders Jay Jay Osinamo and Mark Leito will be crucial in launching counter-attacks and managing Nikao’s forwards.
This match promises to be closely contested, where strategic decisions and key moments will play a significant role in determining the outcome.
Senior Women – 2:40 p.m
Matavera-Ngatangiia aims to recover from a recent defeat to Tupapa-Maraerenga. Their midfield will be instrumental in controlling the game and supporting young striker Tauariki Nia. With a focus on possession and pressing forward, Matavera needs to create opportunities for Nia and Tearoa Rouru, who can be game-changers with their pace and finishing ability.
Nikao relies on quick counter-attacks, with Jennifer Akavi anchoring the defense and Shannon Van Eijk ready to exploit gaps left by Matavera’s movements. Nikao’s goalkeeper, Courtney Napa, will also be pivotal in keeping Matavera’s strikers at bay.
Youth Divisions
In addition to the senior matches, youth divisions will showcase emerging talent at both venues. From the Under-15 Boys and Girls to the Under-18 Men, young footballers will have their chance to shine and demonstrate the future of Cook Islands football. Each match in today’s schedule promises excitement and highlights the skill of the next generation of players.
Today’s draws and referees’ appointments are as follows:
Saturday 02 November 2024
At CIFA Complex
Tupapa-Maraerenga FC vs Titikaveka FC
11:15am U15 Boys
Ref: Penina Katuke
AR1:Teariki Piri
AR2: Mata Iroa
12:15pm U15 Girls
Ref: Teariki Piri
AR1: Andrew Teena
AR2: Jaceline P
1:15pm U18 Boys
Ref: Rakesh Varman
AR1: Teina Savage
AR2: Andrew Teena
4th: Mata Iroa
2:40pm Senior Women
Ref: Lai Gukisuva
AR1: Jaceline
AR2: Teariki Piri
4th: Tuakeu Paerau
4:20pm Premier Men
Ref: Rakesh Varman
AR1: Penina Katuke
AR2: Mata Iroa
4th: Te Upoko
At Nikao Field
Nikao Sokattak FC vs Matavera-Ngatangiia FC
11:15am U15 Boys
Ref: Lai Gukisuva
AR1: Karl Fedrick
AR2: Raita Savage
12:15pm U15 Girls
Ref: Athylene Savage
AR1: Raita Savage
AR2: Matilda
1:15pm U18 Boys
Ref: Robert Savage Snr
AR1: Matilda Auua
AR2: Raita Savage
4th: Uamaki Savage
2:40pm Senior Women
Ref: Robert Savage Jnr
AR1: Athylene Savage
AR2: John Pareanga
4th: Uamaki Savage
4:20pm Premier Men
Ref: John Pareanga
AR1: Robert Savage Snr
AR2: Karl Fedrick
4th: Uamaki Savage
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