Clock is ticking on Geua’s dominance at hoop

GEUA Raula’s reputation as the number one goal-shooter in the country is under threat as Aroma Coast’s young Jennifer Rigolo put her on notice with an outstanding performance in the Port Moresby premier netball challenge on Saturday.The game was an even battle in the shooting department but it was in mid-court where too many over-steps and mis-timed passes allowed Paramana to capitalise and clinch the match.In the first quarter, Rigolo, the Grade 11 student from Port Moresby National High School, sent a clear notice to Under-23 selectors that she was ripe and ready for selection in the near future.
She top-scored, potting eight of the nine goals for Aroma Coast, while the experienced Raula had a 75% success rate in shooting circle, slotting nine of 14 attempts.
In that quarter, Rigolo’s partner and mother Geno Tae managed one, while Raula’s partner, Shana Oi did not find the target with her single chance to score.   
In the second quarter, Paramana introduced Marie Oittio, who had 90% shooting success rate, scoring 11 out of 12 attempts, while Raula scored only four points of nine to take a 24-15 lead at half-time.
In the third quarter, Aroma Coast had Linda coming in at goal attack to support Rigolo, while Ava Rova, who was playing wing attack in the opening half, was shifted back to centre.
The changes paid off for Aroma girls, who dominated with 14 goals as Paramana only scored nine goals.
But Paramana did just enough to stay in front 23-29.
In the final quarter, the re-entry of Raula in the shooting circle made a huge difference as she used her height to easily win the ball.
Aroma Coast only scored 10, while Paramana piled on 20 to win 43-39.
In the other matches, Esco Telstars had too much power over the Pole Kassman-coached Mermaids, winning 47-39, while in the main game, City Pharmacy Rebels led by Lua Rikis thrashed Veupunama 50-35.
In the other matches, Esco Telstars beat Mermaids 47-39, while in the main game, City Pharmacy Rebels led by Lua Rikis thrashed Veupunama 50-35.
With two more weekend’s remaining, the premier games are expected to be evenly contested and it is anybody’s guess just who will finish in the top four teams.