RAROTONGA – The Cook Islands Football Association (CIFA) has ordered Tupapa and Takuvaine to replay last Saturday’s abandoned CIFA Round Cup. Referee Maara Kaukura abandoned the match in the 40th minute after issuing three red cards, one to Matthew Titoa of Takuvaine after the midfielder allegedly twice punched Tupapa goalkeeper Nga-tokorua Elikana.
The incident was exasperated when supporters became embroiled in the fracas leaving Kaukura with no no choice but to abandon the match. Takuvaine led 2-1 when tensions boiled over.
CIFA president Lee Harmon said a replay was the most logical decision to take with Victoria Park, Tupapa, the likely venue. Matthew Titoa – the player at the centre of allegations – would be suspended from playing as a result of his red card.
Harmon said that under the competition rules, the game must be replayed as it was called off in the first half.
"The referee will submit a report on the incident and the CIFA Discipinary Committee will conduct a hearing to determine whether or not further action will be taken," Harmon said.
Maara Kaukura would not officiate the replayed fixture with CIFA naming referee Robert Savage and assistant referees Michael Mouauri and Lai Gukisuva as match officials.