The Cook Islands lost their first match at the 2023 Mirxes Nations Cup in Singapore to the home team early yesterday morning (Cook Islands time).

After narrowly beating Singapore A 53-50 in their opening match, the top ranked Cook Islands side went down to Singapore’s main side 36-58.

In a social media post, Netball Cook Islands said it was not their day and commended Singapore for their stellar performance, as they prepared for their third game last night against Sri Lanka.

According to a statement from the Mirxes Nations Cup, the day’s final game saw Singapore put on a well-rounded display against the Cook Islands, the highest-ranked team at 19^th place, to secure a convincing 22-goal victory with a final score of 58-36.

Despite facing an experienced Cook Islands attacking end with over 150 caps, a solid defensive performance by Singapore held the Cook Islands team to just 13 goals in the subsequent two quarters, while Singapore’s shooting end netted an impressive 27 goals.

It was an error-strewn final quarter from both sides, but Singapore did enough to earn their first victory in the Mirxes Nations Cup.

Speaking about their earlier win over Singapore A, Netball Cook Islands secretary Tekura Moekaa said it was a hard-fought battle that had spectators on the edge of their seats.

Mere Jean Piri, Rachel Tuaputa, Aleida Tere, and Kimberly Tangirere made their debut and did well, Moekaa said.

She said crucial to the Cook Islands’ success was Nicol Tiaore, who intercepted and relentlessly hustled on the court, showcasing her exceptional skills. Tiaore’s determination and precision were pivotal, turning the tide of the game in national team’s favour.

Moekaa said adding to the team’s strength was the return of veteran Curly Taripo, whose wealth of experience became evident as she skillfully guided the attack end, opening up space, and sharing the shooting load.

“Paired with the talented and always composed Alanna Smith, Taripo’s calmness and confidence injected a new vigor into the Cook Islands’ attacking side, and provided balance.”

Meanwhile, the Cook Islands made a stunning impression during the opening ceremony in their poe tiare and head ei, which stood out.

The Mirxes Nations Cup follows a round-robin format that includes top-ranked teams, namely Cook Islands (ranked 19th), Sri Lanka (ranked 20th), Papua New Guinea (ranked 36th), Canada (unranked), and Singapore’s very own opens (ranked 26th) and A teams.