Maleos beaten in openers

By ISAAC LIRI
A third-quarter surge by the Papua New Guinea Maleos (mixed) was not enough to swing the opening test of the Trans Pacific Cup series netball against Australia with the Sonix winning 41-31 yesterday.
The Australians held off the home side thanks to strong first and second quarters at the Sir John Guise Stadium Indoor Complex.
Maleos goal-shooter Maxwell Leka was impressive in the first and second quarter, however, the visitors took a 14-9 lead.
The Sonix defence ensured PNG were never able to mount pressure as they forced the home side into errors resulting in a 29-17 halftime lead .
Maleos mixed coach Lua Rikis made several changes after halftime which had an impact resulting in the home team, scoring 10 points and restricting the Aussies to four.
The final quarter was equally contested as both teams scrambled in attack and defence and missed a lot of opportunities.
The Maleos mixed team were given an applause after the match as many who witnessed realised that the Australian side was beatable by the new kids on the block if not for a nervy start.
In the men’s test, Australia had too much experience for PNG beating them 64-26.
The opening ceremony of the series saw PNG Men’s and Mixed Netball president Adam Parker welcoming the visiting teams and special guests.
Parker said the occasion was historical as it gave PNG recognition in mixed and men’s netball.
“It’s great to play against the best in PNG’s international debut and for us, it’s not about winning or losing it’s about growing the sport,” Parker said. Parker also acknowledged special guests PNG Netball president Julianne Leka-Maliaki, PNG Sports Foundation executive officer Peter Tsiamalili Jr, PNG Olympic Committee president Sir John Dawanincura and sponsors which include The National, who are gold sponsors of the inaugural series.