Eka makes cut

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The National, Friday 10th May 2013

 By KYMLIE KARANI

YOUNG Margaret Eka has finally booked a spot in the Pacific MMI Pepes to represent the country at the Pacific Netball Series in Samoa in June.

Eka, 18, from Lese Oalai, Gulf, will be making her debut after proving to be one of the best defenders in the country.

Papua New Guinea Netball Federation president Julienne Leka-Maliaki said the federation was excited and looking forward to what this balanced team may bring in terms of youth and experience.

“We are optimistic about such young talented players like Eka and we are hoping for better results,” Leka-Maliaki said.

“Following the team’s return from the training camp in Canberra, the players have shown significant improvement and it showed in their recent performances in the trials held last week Sunday.”

“PNG Netball is banking on the experience of its overseas based players and home-grown seasoned campaigners to lead the team in Samoa,” Leka-Maliaki said. 

“The Pacific Series tournament in June and the Nations Cup tournament in December in Singapore are significant tournaments for the team’s ranking for the Commonwealth Games in 2014 and the World Cup in 2015.” 

The team is expected to start its final phase of its training programme this weekend including a medical clearance test and will leave Port Moresby on May 31 for Brisbane for two lead-up matches before heading to Samoa. 

The team’s first game is against Fiji on June 4, Samoa on June 4 and Cook Islands on June 6 before returning home on June 8.

The Pepes: Shooters – Tiata Baldwin, Maleta Roberts, Rayleen Andrew, Albertine Ehari; Defenders – Kilala Owen, Kapu Kapi, Margaret Eka, Tau Galewa; Midcourt – Winnie Mavara, Cheryl Renagi, Nerrie Adula, Kula Iamo. 

The three non-travelling reserves are Marypaul Beulher, Susan Wellington and Richandra Kassman.