The match between Malaysia and Cook Islands was the second match of Day One of the Mission Foods Nations Cup 2017. Cook Islands made their debut in the tournament with a convincing win of 69 – 35 against Malaysia.
Malaysia’s Goal Attack (GA) Karishma S. Loganathan scored the first goal within seconds of the first quarter, but the tables turned when Cook Islands proceeded to score multiple goals soon after and took the lead. Leah Cherie Pue (GA) made countless successful interceptions with impressive lunges even at the first quarter, securing Cook Islands’ lead.
The match continued with both teams displaying strong offense and defense strategies, but Cook Islands started to overpower Malaysia, broadening the gap between their scores and led the game in the next three quarters.
Captain of Team Cook Islands, Luciana Nicholas
“I’m on an absolute high and really proud of the girls. We went in there, knowing what our jobs were and the results just showed itself. We’re really stoked and happy with the convincing win. I think we have a lot more to offer. We’re looking forward to the rest of the tournament and the team is over the moon. We can’t wait for the next game against Hong Kong tomorrow.”
Reserves: Anania Pauleen Piri, Anastasia Salanoa, Daimzel Joy-Naara Teremoana Rongokea, Maine Crystal Maro, Nina-Tai Roberts
MATCH REPORT: HONG KONG VS SWAZILAND
The first two intense matches set the stage for the final match of the day – Hong Kong vs Swaziland, which saw Swaziland beat Hong Kong 48 – 36.
The match commenced with Hong Kong off to a strong start, scoring three consecutive goals. Hong Kong continued to hold the lead and the first quarter ended with Hong Kong leading 12 – 8.
The competition remained fierce but Swaziland managed to edge forward in the last seconds of the second quarter, with a score of 20 – 19. Swaziland continued with their momentum in the next two quarters with impressive footwork, fast passes and long throws. Swaziland remained ahead of the game and won the match 48 – 36.
The first day of the Mission Foods Nations Cup 2017 provided thrilling netball action and fans can only expect more as the battle for the trophy continues tomorrow.
Captain of Team Swaziland, Philile Khathwane
“We are so excited and very happy to have won the game. The team is feeling confident and we will go all out and win as much games as we can.”
Hong Kong
Swaziland
Final Score
36
48
Total Attempts
51
58
Goal %
71
83
Team Hong Kong
GS: Connie Wong (Co-Captain)
GA: Michelle Arkell
WA: Stephanie Cuvelier
C: Kate Jolly (Co-Captain)
WD: Mandy Tai
GD: Kalani Brown
GK: Natassia Brakenridge
Reserves: Emma Gregory, Ann Lo, Gessy Li, Angela Chan, Krystina Te Kanawa-Coffin