Hunters gained two points after defeating Blackhawks in a close encounter 28-26 on the weekend at Kokopo in round 20 of the competition.
Despite levelling points, Blackhawks remain on top due to points for and against.
Ipswich Jets are third on the ladder with 30 points and Wynnum Manly Seagulls on fourth place with 28 points.
Hunters will host fifth placed East Tigers in Round 21 this weekend at Kokopo then play away against Ipswich Jets in Round 22 on August 8.
Hunters will then host Manly Seagulls on August 16 at Sir John Guise Stadium in Port Moresby.