The final leg of the Cook Islands Rugby League (CIRL) State of Origin Series kicks off today at 4pm at Victoria Park in Tupapa, where the undefeated Town Blues will face off against the Country Maroons.

Following a thrilling comeback last Saturday, the Blues, made up of players from Tupapa Maraerenga Panthers, Avatiu Eels and Takuvaine Warriors, surged in the second half to overturn the Maroons’ halftime lead, winning 28-20. Now, they’re eyeing a clean sweep in the best-of-three series, after winning the first leg 46-28.

Town Blues coach Clive Nicholas credits the leadership and commitment of his senior players for the team’s strong performances.

“We’ve been led really well by the captains from our three clubs. In game one, Panthers captain Eric Newbigging, who is also the Town captain, led us. He was unfortunately sidelined with injury for the second match,” said Nicholas. “We then stepped up Jason Potoru from Tupapa, who’s also a vice-captain.”

“Other key leaders include Josh Motu from Avatiu and Tama Nicholas, as well as Perry, captain of TKV. These guys are the driving force behind the Town Blues. I may be the coach putting the drills together, but they’re the ones holding the team together.”

Nicholas said he told Country Maroons coach Dion Nepia, “last one wins all,” but made it clear that the Blues are chasing a clean sweep.

Despite a light turnout of 11 at Tuesday’s training, numbers swelled on Thursday with a full squad plus extras turning up.

“The boys’ attitude has been great. It has to be, especially with most of them preparing for a trip to Australia,” Nicholas said.

He noted that in both previous games, the Country side held early leads, but Town rallied in the final stages – thanks largely to experience and leadership.

“That’s the beauty of this series. You’re combining players from different clubs and giving them something bigger to be a part of. Country gave us a scare both times, and they deserve credit,” he said.

Nicholas, along with Nepia and Apii Tumutoa, revived the Cook Islands Residents initiative last year, and he credits the players’ commitment to fundraising and self-motivation as a key reason the programme has succeeded.

“The boys want more. They want to get off the island and play at a higher level. That drive brings out more commitment and elevates the standard of the game. Without opportunities, there’s no point – we might as well go work, help our families…,” he said.

Nicholas emphasised that village support isn’t what it used to be, and projects like the Origin Series are crucial to keeping players engaged.

“If we don’t keep it alive, rugby league on the island will fade.”

Though stepping into a new role with the Cook Islands Rugby Union, Nicholas still has one foot in league.

“I’m here to help build this. This series is about more than the games – it’s about selecting the Kukis and growing the sport.”

He also acknowledged growing support from the community, with Ngatangiia MP and clubs backing the initiative, and events like today’s post-match function helping to build excitement.

Country coach Dion Nepia expressed frustration over early-week training absences.

“It’s been hard preparing when you don’t know who’s turning up,” he said. However, he confirmed 12 players attended Thursday’s training and remains confident of fielding a strong team.

“I want the boys to play for pride. There’s no such thing as a rolled rubber,” said Nepia. “The Town team has experience and used their full quota of five imports, but we’ve given local players a shot and they’ve stepped up.”

Nepia pointed out the Origin series helps players lift their game at the club level and prepares them for national selection.

From today’s match, selected players will continue training with the Cook Islands Residents squad ahead of their overseas tour in October.

Nepia will announce the travelling squad after today’s game.

Today’s curtain-raiser will see the Under-16s play at 3pm, followed by the premier men’s match at 4pm.

Entry fees: Adults: $5, Teens $2, Children under 12: Free. Note: In case of bad weather, the venue will shift to Nukupure Park in Muri. Both teams are encouraged to dress appropriately for the post-match function hosted by the Cook Islands Rugby League.