Telstars beat Mermaids in top-of-the-table clash

TELSTARS beat Mermaids 37-35 in their round eight Port Moresby Netball Association premier grade clash at the Rita Flynn courts on Saturday.
Spectators were entertained by the quality of the fixture between the competition’s two best sides with Telstars pulling off a two-point win.
Telstars coach Veitu Diro admitted that they had to work hard, particularly in the second half, and credited their stamina and game plan for the win.
Diro moved Gamini Koroka from her initial defensive role to the front court to back up youngster Eva Aua in the crucial second half.
Shooter Boio Peter, who started under the hoop, was shifted back to the mid-court to accommodate Koroka’s inclusion.
“Boio is fast and she’s got good reflexes. She is our utility because she can play in any position,” Diro said.
It was a contest of endurance, agility and consistency as both teams boast an array of rising talent and experienced campaigners.
The first quarter saw a 9-9 score line but the Mermaids managed to take an 18-16 lead in the second frame.
Telstars surged back at three-quarter time to reverse the lead at 27-25 ahead.
Telstars mentor Diro said she was concerned with their consistency in the crucial third quarter but they managed to get back on track in the final period.
“I wasn’t pleased with the team’s performance in the third quarter because we made so many errors,” Diro said of the 15 mistakes her side gave up.
“You can’t play for 15 minutes and make 15 mistakes during that time. That’s something we have to work on this week before we play Paranama next round.
“Overall, I’m happy with the win. It was a team effort.”
Results: Sat, July 28 – Telstars 37 Mermaids 35, Sparrows 53 Raukele 32, Paramana 48 Veupunama 36.