Pepes turn in strong performance against champs

 By KYMLIE KARANI

THE new-look Pacific MMI Pepes pushed Fiji to their limit before going down 59-45 yesterday in Apia, Samoa.

The Pepes disappointingly went down by 14 points to the Pacific giants in the opening match of the Pacific Netball Series (PNS), a much improved score line compared to past efforts.

Coach Annie Iamo is an interview yesterday said despite the nerve-wrecking game, the PNG girls fought hard through with Captain Winnie Mavara and Kula Iamo dictating play well in the midcourt.

“I must say I’m really impressed and happy with the girls’ performance. Fiji is the team to beat in this tournament and I believe we can polish up on where we left from this first game,” Iamo said.

Fiji led in the first quarter 19-12, 34-22 at half time and maintained lead right through to the end.

The starting seven included lofty Tiata Baldwin and Maleta Roberts at shooter, Kula Iamo at wing attack, Winnie Mavara at centre, Nerrie Adula at wing defense while 18-year-old debutant Margaret Eka and Kilala Owen on defence.

Iamo said she would have one or two changes to the team before it takes on Samoa this evening.

“Samoa and Fiji have different styles of playing. Fiji had a more aerial style of play that’s why I can’t keep the same line up. 

“I’ll be looking at different combinations from the training session to pick my first seven for the Samoa game,” Iamo said.

Shooter Rayleen Andrew was dropped at the 11th hour before the team departed from Brisbane to Apia due to a failure in abiding by the Pepes’ Code of Conduct. 

This allowed non-travelling reserve Marypaul Beulher to take her spot.