Avatiu Nikao Eels made a flying start to the 2024 Cook Islands Rugby League 13s competition, defeating the defending champions on Saturday.

In the second week of the competition, the Clive Nicholas-coached Eels faced 2023 champions Arorangi Bears at Aretere Park in Avatiu.

They defeated the Bears 30-8 in a dominant performance, getting their season off to a strong start.

This is the Bears’ second loss after going down to Tupapa Panthers 8-34 in the opening week.

Against the Eels, the Bears made a strong start, tying the game at 4-4 before allowing the hosts to take control and lead 14-8 at halftime.

The Eels scored 16 unanswered points in the second half to secure the win.

In the women’s match, the Lady Bears and Lady Bulldogs drew 4-4. Both teams were scoreless in the first half.

Meanwhile, Titikaveka Bulldogs surprised Tupapa Panthers with a 38-30 victory at Aretere Park on Friday.

In their previous match, the Bulldogs lost to Ngatangiia Matavera Sea Eagles 16-44. According to Cook Islands Rugby League, the Bulldogs’ win over the Panthers was a major upset, and they congratulated the Titikaveka side for their fantastic comeback victory.