Day three of the Netball World Cup 2019 Regional Qualifier – Oceania, featured two sides looking for their first win playing against each other and a second vs third clash.
Tonga 56 – 64 Papua New Guinea
Both Tonga and Papua New Guinea were still in search of their first win in the competition coming into this game. With games left to play running out, this was a crucial game to get points on the board.
During the first few days of competition, both sides have played some good netball but haven’t quite got over the winning line. There wasn’t much to separate between the two sides in the first quarter either. PNG led by two but would extend the lead to seven at the main interval.
Tonga tried to reduce the deficit but found themselves further adrift and would eventually lose by eight goals. Tonga’s chances of qualifying for Liverpool are over with this defeat.
PNG play their final game of the competition tomorrow against Fiji while Tonga have a day of rest before returning to action on the final day against the Cook Islands.
Fiji 55 – 38 Cook Islands
Day three concluded with second taking on third. Both Fiji and the Cook Islands had won their only game in the competition coming into this and a win for either side would send them to 4 points alongside Samoa, who return to action tomorrow.
Fiji’s quick start put them in control for the entire match, racing to a 15-5 lead in the first quarter. The Pearls increased their lead right throughout the game and secured a 17 point victory. The margin of victory has seen Fiji overtake Samoa to the top of the table on goal difference.
The Cook Islands still have every chance in qualifying for Liverpool, as tomorrow they play Samoa, where a win would put them level on points with their opponents. Fiji lead the way at the top and play Papua New Guinea on day four.
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Courtesy – Netball World Cup 2019