Following the 20-12 defeat to New South Wales Cup side Penrith Panthers, the SP PNG Hunters will have to put a lot of effort into their preparation for a tough season ahead.
Hunters Coach Michael Marum admitted after the match it will be a tough season for the team with a lot of young players adjusting to the high standard of competition.
“The first few games will be tough on us.
“This trial match has really helped the coaching staff in terms of player combinations, team weaknesses and strengths,” said Marum.
He said one big weakness is goal conversions which was a huge worry when all three goals had unsuccessful conversions.
“Ase Boas was a second choice goal kicker. He does well during training but I am not sure what went wrong with his kicks so we’ll have to work more on that before the season kicks off,” he said.
Marum thanked the home crowd for their support adding the atmosphere was a big difference compared to the Sir John Guise Stadium.
The team is looking forward to playing their games at the new National Football Stadium.
The Intrust Cup 2016 season kicks off on March 6, with the opener against South Logan Magpies.