The Fiji Pearls have recorded their first win in the Oceania Netball Tri Series however it was a close battle as Fiji beat Samoa by 46-44.
Fiji started the match without experienced players like Taraima Rara Mitchell and captain Mere Neiliko Rabuka however it was 18-year-old Episake Kahatoka who kept the crowd on their feet as she produced an impressive performance in her first outing for the Pearls.
Kahatoka said she was able to play well because of the support provided by the players.
Samoa made a good start in the first few minutes of the first quarter however the Pearls managed to fight back winning the first quarter 13-10.
In the second quarter both teams showed glimpses of their flair and physicality as the Pearls led 24-21 at half time.
Fiji then came into the second half raising the intensity of the match and claimed victory in the last two minutes of the game.
The Fiji Pearls will take on the Silver Ferns in the last match of the Oceania Netball Tri Series at 6.40 tonight at the Vodafone Arena.
