Avatiu Eels have made a grand start in the 2021 Cook Islands Premier League after beating the Aitutaki Sharks in the opening match of the season at the The Swamp in Avatiu.
After a close first half, with both teams locked at 14-all at the break, the Albert Nicholas-coached Eels put in a dominant second half to run out 48 – 22 winners.
In the other Premier League matchess, the Arorangi Bears defeated the Ngatangiia Matavera Sea Eagles 32 – 6, whilst the Tupapa Panthers won by default after the Titikaveka Bulldogs were short of player at kick off.
In the other matches played over the weekend, the Panthers and Bears ran out winners in Reserve Grade fixtures.
RESULTS:
Premier League:
Avatiu Eels 48 – 22 Aitutaki Sharks
Tupapa Panthers WBD – LBD Titikaveka Bulldogs
Arorangi Bears 32 – 6 Ngatangiia Matavera Sea Eagles
Reserve Grade:
Tupapa Panthers 34 – 14 Titikaveka Bulldogs
Arorangi Bears 50 – 4 Ngatangiia Matavera Sea Eagles
Under 19s:
Arorangi Bears 26 – 16 Ngatangiia Matavera Sea Eagles
Under 14s:
Tupapa Panthers 48 – 0 Avatiu Eels
Arorangi Bears 20 – 16 Ngatangiia Matavera Sea Eagles
Under 12s:
Tupapa Panthers 12 – 2 Avatiu Eels
Ngatangiia Matavera Sea Eagles 1 – 0 Arorangi Bears