Gonopa makes her mark as a fighter

 By NIGEL LAKI

SEVENTEEN-year-old Jessy Gonopa from Enga representing Highlands region will get another shot in the Ox & Palm Cup semi-final qualifier on November 30 in Lae.

The grade 11 female student mix parentage of Central and Highlands was given another opportunity by PNG Kickboxing Association and CEO Stanley Nandex in the 67kg under card.

Nandex was very impressed with the talents and skills displayed by the student at Highlands International Secondary School in Wabag.

Gonopa showed courage and determination during her bout against a much older and experienced fighter Dianne Louise.

The fight ended in a draw and the judges gave one minute extra time to pick a winner. 

With extra time in hand, both fighters exchanged punches and kicks in what has turned out to be an interesting and physical encounter. 

After one minute of extra time the judges had to make a tough decision. 

Dianne Louise was picked the winner because she had made more inside kicks to gain more scores during the extension time.