Kokoda Cup

Round 5 ‘Kokoda Cup’ Match Preview: SP PNG Hunters v Burleigh Bears

The Burleigh Bears started their 2022 campaign with consecutive wins over Wynnum-Manly, Townsville and Redcliffe before falling short to the Tweed Seagulls in Round 4.

After a week off over the Easter long weekend, the Bears will be looking to bounce back from that loss with a strong showing on Monday.

The PNG Hunters are looking to add to their Round 1 win over Mackay after a string of tough losses to three of the competition heavyweights in the opening month of the season.

Hunters mangle Bears in 42-6 win

The Hunters were in trouble three minutes into the round eight match for the Kokoda Cup when Kurtis Rowe crossed over to score.

Keanu Te Kiri then added the two points to bring the Bears out to a 6-0 lead.

But the combination of Ase Boas and Wera put the Hunters right back in the contest, with two tries to Wera in the space of five minutes.

The first came in the 11th minute from an inside ball to a charging Wera, and the second through a chip kick over the defence for a flying Wera to catch and score right before the dead ball line.

Hunters name 18-man squad for Kokoda Cup

A physical encounter is expected for the ANZAC Day match that will take place next Monday at 3.30pm at Pizzey Park in Brisbane, Australia.

Hunters coach, Michael Marum has made a number of changes with Adex Wera being moved into the centres after captain Noel Zeming was ruled out due to injury.

This has made way for Stargroth Amean to return to the fullback position while Ase Boas replaces brother Watson at five-eighth to partner Atte Bina in the halves.

Also back in the side is Tuvi Lepan who missed last week’s game due to a concussion.