CIFA Complex will hold battles like no other today when Titikaveka FC will go toe to toe with top seeded Nikao Sokattak FC in the Tower Insurance premier men’s division.

Throughout the entire football season, the men’s division have given supporters lots to endure, with unexpected results and many close calls, so without a doubt today’s fixture will be one to keep you on the edge of your seat.

In their last encounter on Titikaveka’s home turf, both teams had trouble overcoming the other and the match ended in a 1-all draw. And today won’t be an easy match for either team as clubs get down to business in the final few weeks of the Round Cup competition.

Titikaveka, a side that has earned themselves third placing on the points table, and a team that has caused many upsets, has continuously brought on field a bold line-up since tasting their first victory in the weekly competition.

Teariki Piri and Akiona Tairi are vital to Titikaveka’s counterattack from their midfield positions and delivering balls to their speedsters Rua Oti and Nuku Mokoroa to score the much-needed goals.

These two speedsters are sure to be active in today’s match as they will need to find their way through Nikao’s broad defensive wall and vigilant goalkeeper.

Known for their prompt forwards, and resilient midfield Nikao Sokattak will be sure to tempt this Titikaveka side. Passing through the likes of James Osaramo and Ronnie Sakai seems to be impossible when going head on with this team. Nikao Sokattak will be looking to cause many challenges for their opponents and keep the field heated with their expansive brand of football. This side has shown tenacity when setting their sights at opposition goal.

Nikao’s Jack Poiri and Alfred Hendy will be key players in defence for the Sokattak.

Also holding third placing in the Islander senior women’s division, Titikaveka have climbed up the ladder after causing some major upsets in these last few matches.

Nippy centre backs like Viorangi Kite and Eitaire Tangirere have proven fierce players to battle with and the due will be hoping to lead by example in today’s crucial clash against Nikao. Titikaveka will need to keep a watchful eye on Nikao’s piercing forwards Tarani Omao and Nicol Tiaore, these two youngsters are not ones to take lightly.

Nikao will need to find a way to contain players such as Tehinnah Tatuava and Ani-Tia Piri, who have proven instrumental upfront for Titikaveka.

In the other match today to be played at The Swamp, hosts Avatiu FC will take on Matavera FC in the premier men’s and senior women’s matches.

Starting off both fixtures today will be the BSP U15 Boys at 11.15am, followed by the BSP U15 Girls match at 12.15pm.

- CIFA Media

Fixtures

Avatiu Field – 11.15am          Under 15 Boys. Avatiu FC vs Matavera FC (Ref: Kataraina Piri, Assist: Tailei Blake, Ua Savage), 12.15pm Under 15 Girls. Avatiu FC vs Matavera FC (Ref: Ua Savage, Assist: Noovao Noovao, Anzac Tapaitau), 1.15pm     Under 18 Men. Avatiu FC vs Matavera FC (Ref: John Pareanga, Assist: Merian Noovao, Kimberly Uini), 2.40pm Senior Women. Avatiu FC vs Matavera FC (Ref: Robert Savage, Assist: Tione Nand, Junior Savage), 4.15pm Premier Men. Avatiu FC vs Matavera FC (Ref: John Pareanga, Assist: Kataraina Piri, Kimberly Uini).

CIFA complex, Matavera – 11.15am Under 15 Boys. Nikao Sokattak FC vs Titikaveka FC (Ref: Tehainnah Tatuava, Assist: Ava Wyllie, Penina Katuke), 12.15pm Under 15 Girls. Nikao Sokattak FC vs Titikaveka FC (Ref: Poko Manuela, Assist: Matilda Auua, Theressa Kaukura), 1.15pm Under 18 Men. Nikao Sokattak FC vs Titikaveka FC (Ref: Maara Kaukura, Assist: Teupoko Tuariki, Matilda Auua), 2.40pm Senior Women. Nikao Sokattak FC vs Titikaveka FC (Ref: Lai Gukisuva, Assist: Gideon Pouao, Teupoko Tuariki), 4.15pm Premier Men. Nikao Sokattak FC vs Titikaveka FC (Ref: Tupou Brogan, Assist: Lai Gukisuva, Tehainnah Tatuava).