Sparrows eye fourth straight POMNA title in grand final showdown
Reigning champions Credit Corporation Sparrows are bracing for a fierce grand final clash against archrivals Veupunama tomorrow, as they chase a historic fourth consecutive Port Moresby Netball Association title.
The highly anticipated showdown is set to take place at 2pm at the Rita Flynn Outdoor Courts.
Sparrows head coach Julien Leka said the team is locked in and ready for what’s expected to be the most thrilling match of the year.
“The atmosphere in camp is high, and the girls are looking forward to a great game and more importantly, enjoying the competitive spirit,” Leka told NBC News.
The Sparrows enter the grand final with unfinished business after a shock loss to Veupunama [this year’s minor premiers] in the preliminary finals two weeks ago.
They bounced back in emphatic fashion with a dominant 56 - 30 win over Enviro Telstars, securing their spot in tomorrow’s decider.
“Having lost to Veupunama, we’ve worked very hard to get to this stage. Our preparations have been strategic, focusing on combinations and a solid defensive structure,” Leka said.
She credited the team’s strong defense as the foundation of their campaign, alongside the impact of rising under-21 players stepping up in key moments.
“Teamwork, trust, and digging deep when it mattered most have carried us this far. The new energy brought by our U21 players has been a big factor.”
Despite losing seasoned leaders Kilala Owen and Jacklyn Lahari earlier in the season, Leka says the team has rebuilt successfully around a new leadership core.
“We’ve had to instill new leadership, and I’m proud of the way the younger players have stepped up. Right now, 80% of our team are young talents, with 20% experienced campaigners guiding them.”
She said consistency from the opening whistle will be key in overcoming a highly athletic and unpredictable Veupunama side, led by head coach Margaret Opina.
“We’ll need to start strong and remain vigilant. Veupunama are agile and can be unpredictable, they’ve proven they can punish mistakes.”
With three consecutive titles already under their belt, Sparrows are aiming to cap off another dominant season with a fourth, in the pinnacle event of the 2025 POMNA season
“We’ve won the championship since COVID, and our drive hasn’t changed. Another title wouldn’t be a bad way to finish the year,” Leka said. “It’s why we show up every season to give our best and defend what we’ve built.”
Tomorrow’s final promises high stakes, top-level netball, and a fierce rivalry renewed, setting the stage for a grand finale worthy of the POMNA legacy.