The PNG SP Hunters proved the Manly Wynnum Seagulls wrong on their home ground after winning their first match ever at the BMD Kougari Oval in Brisbane 24-10 today.
Hunters started the match with quick points on the board before half time with Ishmael Baikawa opening the scoreboard with a short ball from Wartovo Puara Jnr and minutes later , Bland Abavu ran into the corner with the second as fullback Stargroth Amean sealed the half time score at 16-0.
Leading 16-0 at halftime, the Seagulls began 15 minutes into the second half with a try to minimize the lead to 16-4 after an unsuccessful convertion.
Hunters won a penalty right in front of the goal from a high shot at youngster Justin Olam as skipper Noel Zeming converted the penalty for 2 points to further the lead to 18-4.
Hunters Half Back Watson Boas then got a hit in the tackle and was taken off the field but the game continued as the players swapped positions to fill in.
The Seagulls hit back 2 minutes later with a converted try bringing the score to 18-10 as they tried to get back into the game but couldn’t find the finishing line despite many line breaks.
The Hunters put the icing on the cake when Justin Olam ran in the last try chasing Wartovo Puaras Jnr’s grubber to add to the celebrations, 24-10.
Picture courtesy of Wynnum Seagulls