In an extra time local derby Under 15 National Netball Championship pulsating decider, Abau pulled off a gutsy 19-17 victory over Hiri-Koiari on Wednesday, September 18th, 2024, at Rita Flynn Courts in Port Moresby.
The big dance between Abau and Hiri-Koiari lived up to the hype and expectations of the healthy crowd that turned up to support their respective teams, when the match was sent to the extra time twice, keeping all the netball lovers on their toes in a boilover finish.
Both teams were tied at nine points apiece in the regulation time, so an extra time was given, with five minutes each way. The game ended again in a cliffhanger for the second time, so an additional five minutes was granted, and Abau made use of it to beat Hiri-Koiari by 2 points.
Abau Team Manageress Kamu Bou emotionally expressed her excitement and tears of joy, crediting her team for competing until the final whistle to defend their title in two consecutive years (2023-2024).
“I am lost for words, it was a miraculous win. I just told the players to play for Jesus, including themselves. Basically, I told them to go out there and have fun. I’m happy that we’ve defended our title,” Mrs. Bou said.
Abau’s U15 girls had a strong showing at the national championship, winning all their games but losing only one match to the Hiri-Koiari. When it mattered the most, the Abau girls played their hearts out and took revenge on Hiri-Koiari to retain their championship.
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