Brendon Gotuno

Gotuno brings quality to PNG side

The Hunters’ reshuffled round 5 lineup will see Brendon Gotuno take the wing.

The 23-year-old brings quality to the PNG side after his short stint with the Penrith Panthers New South Wales Cup side.

After missing round 4 due to disciplinary reasons, Joe Joshua, Junior Rop and McKenzie Yei will take the field while skipper Adex Wera, Moses Meninga and Wawa Paul will rest their injuries.

Making their debut this weekend are Jerry Teme (Hunter no. 78) and Jack Oii (Hunter no. 79).

Gotuno replaces Morris

Also promoted to the starting line-up is Stanton Albert at prop and McKenzie Yei in the 2nd row.

Starters in the last game; Dilbert Isaac, Ila Alu, Edene Gabbie, Moses Meninga and William Mone, have been named on the extended 20-man bench.

Coach Michael Marum will finalise the starting 17 at the Captain’s Run this Saturday.

After Round 13 matches, the SP PNG Hunters currently share the fifth spot on the ladder with Easts Tigers and Sunshine Coast Falcons, with 12 points each.

22yo to debut in Hunters clash

Upon being given the news this afternoon, the excited 22-year-old from Chimbu and East New Britain Province said he had been dreaming of this day.

“I’m so excited to be part of this champion team. It’s an achievement. It’s a dream-come-true.”

Gotuno, who has represented the country in AFL and also in rugby league for the PNG Prime Minister’s XIII, said he can’t wait to take the field this weekend.

Gotuno replaces Butler Morris.

In other changes made by coach Michael Marum, Stargroth Amean makes a return to the starting line-up at fullback.