Easts Tigers

The Tigers defeated the Hunters 30-14 at Langlands Park, Brisbane, on Saturday.

Overeagerness by the PNG side gave rise to unnecessary errors and penalties, opening the door for the Tigers to stroll through.

It was an unsuccessful afternoon for the boys as they were defeated 30-12 at the Tigers’ home ground.

The Hunters, led by stand-in captain Wartovo Puara Jnr, were the first to register 2 points from a penalty goal, thanks to Watson Boas.

However, a Scott Drinkwater (captain) pass to Linc Port a few minutes later saw the Tigers extend their lead to 4-2.

Successful conversion by Brodie Croft added another 2 points for the Tigers.

Michael Marum’s side has never won a match against Easts Tigers at Suzuki Stadium, Langlands Park, Brisbane, and are hopeful to break that spell on Saturday.

Coach Marum admits the match ahead will be a tough one.

“We’ve never won a game against them in Suzuki Oval, Langlands. The last time we played against them, we drew,” said Coach Marum. 

Coming back from a home game win on Sunday, Hunters have had a short week of training but are riding on the success of the 3 consecutive wins.

The SP PNG Hunters are determined to maintain the momentum this weekend.

“We were still confident at half-time. I just said at half-time that if we can control the football and put some pressure on them, it can go either way.

“But we just dropped too much ball. If we can control this, we’re going to be a tough side to beat.

“We were very physical I thought. The PNG boys are very strong, they cut through the middle, they were quick and they got the jump on us and got the points.

“We just didn’t hold onto the ball,” said Sipple.

This was announced by coach of the SP Hunters, Michael Marum at this afternoon's training session.

He explained that Watson Boas is still out injured for another week which has put Puara in to call the shots at number 7.

In Puara's place at hooker will be Warren Glare who has been moved into the starting line up.

He added Tuvi Lepan, Nickson Borana and Philimon Kimisive are still out with injuries and so rest of the team remains unchanged.

"Atte Bina Wabo is the 18th man while Gahuna Silas is on the bench.