Puaikura earned their chance to chase the double after securing a 2-1 victory over Nikao Sokattak in a nail-biting semi-final.
Right from the whistle, the young Puaikura players seemed more organised and hungry for the win than their opponents.
Puaikura’s first goal came from scoring machine, and FIFA assistant referee, Paavo Mustonen after the Nikao Sokattak defenders failed to clear a corner from the six-yard box 16 minutes into the match.
Nikao Sokattak had the occasional opportunity to equalise, but lacked the finish.
Puaikura extended their lead in the 34 minute thanks to a powerful strike from U-17 international Pekay Edwards.
Both sides attacked and created chances in the second half and it looked like Nikao Sokattak was on their way towards launching a late comeback in the 89 minute when the referee awarded a penalty.
Jonathan Rowe stepped up to convert but it proved nothing but a consolation goal as Puaikura held strong in defence until the final whistle sounded.
It was a more one-sided affair in the other semi-final as Tupapa Maraerenga disposed of Matavera with five unanswered goals thanks to double strikes from Campbell Best and Geoffrey Strickland, plus one to Grover Harmon.
Senior Women
2013 Round Cup champions Nikao Sokattak defeated Puaikura 2-1 on Saturday with goals to Sokattak duo Tepaeru Toka and Amantta Mangi. Linade Unuka scored Puaikura’s sole goal.
In the second semi-final Tupapa Maraerenga defeated Titikaveka with the game’s sole goal going to Elizabeth Harmon.
Under 17 Men
Puaikura progressed through to the finals after beating Titikaveka 4-0 and will now meet Nikao Sokattak who thrashed Tupapa Maraerenga 11-0 to secure their spot in the final.
Under 14 Boys
Although Nikao Sokattak scored two early goals against them, Puaikura turned the tables to pull level at 2-2 by full-time forcing the match into a penalty shootout. Puaikura converted three chances to Nikao’s two.
Under 14 Girls
Tupapa Maraerenga beat Titikaveka 5-0 to earn their finals spot while the Matavera side also earned a convincing 3-0 win to progress.
Under 11 Mix
This popular division will see Tupapa Maraerenga take on Nikao Sokattak in the final after both sides did away with their opponents Matavera and Titikaveka respectively in the semi-finals.
For more on Cook Islands football go to www.cookislandsfootball.com

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