Black Swans remain hot after decisive win over Papua New Guinea

Joseph Guenzler
Joseph Guenzler Published February 19, 2025 at 11.00am (AWST)

The First Nations Black Swans have continued their strong start in the PacificAus Sports Netball Series, claiming a 59-52 victory over the PNG Pepes in their second match.

Coming off a nail-biting win over Tonga, the Black Swans introduced several debutants against PNG, including Kaurna woman Nasyah Turner (GS), Ngemba/Barkandji woman Jaylah Boney (GK), Wiradjuri woman Jayda Grant (GA), and Maryke Babia (WD), the team's first Torres Strait Islander player from Mabuyag and Saibai Islands.

The Swans took an early lead and maintained control throughout the match, despite PNG's athleticism and quick hands.

The Pepes managed nine intercepts, but their 38 turnovers proved costly against the Swans' 33.

Jayda Grant was a standout, shooting a perfect 15 from 15, while Turner contributed 18 from 27.

Gomeroi woman Olivia Clark and Wiradjuri woman Sophie Brewer also combined for 26 points.

"It felt amazing. Being out there with the girls felt so comfortable, and I just feel so connected with them all," Grant said.

"Training with the girls and getting to know them on a deeper level… it feels unbelievable.

"I'm pretty sure I haven't shot at 100 percent before, so doing that out here is making my confidence grow."

Acacia Elers connects with Jayda Grant. (Image: Joseph Guenzler)

Team Manager Beryl Friday, a Nyungkal woman of the Kuku Yalanji people, praised the team's progress.

"Last night against Tonga was ecstatic. It was such a great feeling to get that win," Friday said.

"A different team we had tonight in the Pepes, but a win's a win.

"We've got new people in the team this year, and they brought so much flair and aspects to our team that we didn't have before."

The Black Swans now look ahead to their next match against Scotland on Wednesday, aiming to maintain their unbeaten streak in the tournament.

"It's all about giving our girls pathways and opportunities, and I feel like we've been doing that," Friday said.

   Related   

   Joseph Guenzler   

Download our App

@natindigtimes
Article Audio

Disclaimer: This function is AI-generated and therefore may mispronounce.

National Indigenous Times

Disclaimer: This function is AI-generated and therefore may mispronounce.