The round six clashes in the 2024 Rarotonga Round Cup Competition last week delivered thrilling football action across all divisions, with several closely contested matches and standout performances.

At the CIFA Complex on Saturday, Tupapa Maraerenga and Matavera-Ngatangiia faced off in a pair of intense and fiercely competitive matches that kept spectators on the edge of their seats.

In the Premier Men’s clash, Tupapa Maraerenga narrowly secured a 2-1 victory over Matavera-Ngatangiia in a match where both teams displayed tenacity and skill.

Henry McKenzie was pivotal for Tupapa, netting both of their goals. He first found the back of the net in the first half, capitalising on a moment of confusion in Matavera’s defence to slot the ball home.

Matavera-Ngatangiia, undeterred by the setback, responded with determination in the second half. Their efforts were rewarded when Mareta Tereapii stepped up to deliver a spectacular free kick that sailed into the net, leveling the score and reigniting Matavera’s hopes.

The match continued to be tightly contested, with both teams creating chances and battling for control in the midfield. However, it was McKenzie again who made the difference, scoring the decisive goal late in the second half. After receiving a well-timed through ball from Tahitoa Webb, McKenzie unleashed a powerful shot from the right side that curled into the top left corner, securing the win for Tupapa.

Matavera-Ngatangiia’s performance was commendable, as their defence worked tirelessly to contain Tupapa’s attacks, particularly the pace and threat posed by Alphie Ngire and Julius David.

Matavera’s midfield also played a key role in disrupting Tupapa’s rhythm, forcing them to work hard for every opportunity. Despite the loss, Matavera-Ngatangiia’s spirited display and tactical discipline were evident throughout the match, reflecting their growth and potential in the competition.

In the Senior Women’s match, Tupapa Maraerenga’s team delivered a commanding performance, dominating Matavera-Ngatangiia with a decisive 5-0 victory.

Jan Taia was in top form, netting a hat trick, demonstrating her sharp finishing ability in front of goal. Cjay Rimamotu and Aleyna Tatuava also contributed with a goal each, showcasing the depth of Tupapa’s attacking options.

Throughout the match, Tupapa’s attacking play was relentless, as they effectively combined quick passing between the midfield and wide forwards, consistently creating space and opportunities.

Despite Matavera’s best efforts, including a pressing game that aimed to disrupt Tupapa’s rhythm and quick counterattacks that sought to exploit any gaps, they were unable to break through Tupapa’s organised defense or convert their chances into goals.

Over at Nikao Sports Field, Avatiu’s Premier Men’s team put on a commanding performance, cruising to a 6-1 victory over Nikao Sokattak.

Avatiu dominated the first half, scoring five goals, including a hat trick by Tioni Nand, with Robert Savage and James Nand adding a goal each. Nuku Tetava added another in the second half. Nikao managed to score a consolation goal, but the match firmly ended in Avatiu’s favour.

In the Senior Women’s division, Avatiu secured a solid 3-0 win against a determined Nikao Sokattak side. The first half saw Ngamaanga Taripo break the deadlock with a well-placed goal. In the second half, Terrisa Piri and Mahana Sijp added a goal each, ensuring Avatiu’s comfortable victory.

At the CIFA Complex on Friday, in the Premier Men’s match, Puaikura defeated Titikaveka in a tightly contested battle, winning 1-0.

Daniel Taokia scored the only goal of the match with a powerful shot that found the back of the net.

Both teams were evenly matched, with each side fighting hard for control, but it was Puaikura who managed to secure the crucial win.

On Thursday, in the Senior Women’s division, Titikaveka and Puaikura battled to a 0-0 draw.

Both teams showed strong defensive play, making it difficult for either side to find the back of the net. Titikaveka stepped up their game from previous matches, giving Puaikura a tough challenge, but ultimately, neither team could break the deadlock.

• CIFA Media

Results

U6 Mix Division – Puaikura 5 Tupapa Maraerenga 3, Avatiu 2 vs Titikaveka 3.

Titikaveka vs Puaikura – Premier Men 0-1, Senior Women 0-0, U18 Men 4-0, U15 Boys 0-1, U15 Girls 2-0, U12 Mix 5-0, U10 Mix 8-5, U8 Mix 4-3; Matavera-Ngatangiia vs Tupapa Maraerenga – Premier Men 1-2, Senior Women 0-5, U18 Men 1-2, U15 Boys 9-0, U15 Girls 0-7, U12 Mix 1-0, U10 Mix 1-1, U8 Mix 1-1;

Nikao Sokattak vs Avatiu – Premier Men 1-6, Senior Women 0-3, U18 Men 0-3, U15 Boys 1-0, U15 Girls 0-0, U12 Mix 2-2, U10 Mix 4-2, U8 Mix 0-3.