The Fiji Pearls side made a grand start to its Digicel Tri-Series campaign, defeating Papua New Guinea 67-41 last night.

The Matila Waqanidrola-led side maintained its lead throughout the match, with shooters Maria Lutua and Afa Rusivakula leading the way.

Centre Vaiti Waqatabu and wing attack Alesi Waqa were a thorn in defense for the visitors.

Meanwhile, Fiji A defeated Tonga 42-36 in the curtain-raiser.

The Fiji Pearls next match will be against Northern Ireland tomorrow at the Vodafone Arena at 7pm.

In today’s games, Tonga will take on Fiji A at 4:35pm followed by the match between Northern Ireland and PNG at 7:00pm.