SP PNG Hunters

Just a week after beating the then third-ranked side in Wynnum Manly the Hunters couldn’t back it up against another top team on Sunday in the Capras, who ran in 11 tries to four in a dominant attacking display.
Despite how the scoreboard read at fulltime, both teams started the game with a clear defensive mindset as they traded shots at the other’s line.

The Hunters will ride a wave of confidence into this weekend’s contest, having produced their best performance of the season last week against the Wynnum Manly Seagulls to win 36-22.

There were some notable changes to the Hunters’ squad who won that game – namely a new halves pairing of Kingstimer Paraia and Judah Rimbu, and skipper Keven Appo’s move from edge forward to lock – but the most significant difference between the Hunters’ of Round 14 and the 2022 season as a whole was their intent and aggression on both sides of the ball. 

In picturesque conditions at BMD Kougari Oval on Saturday afternoon, the Hunters embraced the lively Wynnum crowd and their intent was evident from the kick-off. The PNG side worked into attacking field position confidently with just their second possession and looked dangerous with the ball until some resolute Seagulls’ defence forced the first error of the match.

Despite their position on the ladder, the Jets came out firing from the kick off, charging upfield with their first set to attack the Hunters’ line. The visitors’ defence held but it was a sign of things to come, with Ipswich dominating field position and yardage early on to score tries through Ricci Falaniko and Denzel Burns inside the first 10 minutes.

Having been beaten out of the gates, the PNG side mustered to drag themselves back in the contest thanks to the silky attacking skills of Judah Rimbu at fullback.

This helps provide the players with educational and training opportunities in preparation for life after football.  

Rugby holds a strong and formidable place in the community and the same can be said of Hastings Deering since its establishment in PNG since 1949.

PNG Hunters Chief Executive Officer, Scott Barker says rugby league unites every Papua New Guinean and as people in the country.

With a strong wind at their backs to begin the game, the Pride wasted no time going on the attack thanks to an early penalty conceded by the Hunters in the kick-off set.

Suddenly camped on their own goal line, the Hunters looked like they’d defended the set until Pride fullback Julian Christian took possession on the last, feigned a kick to the left and turned back in towards the ruck to link with Matthew Egan in support.

The Hunters’ cover defence couldn’t close the space in time as the Pride halfback opened the scoring with a clever four pointer.

Sunday’s clash is an important game for both sides, who currently sit equal on the ladder with three wins apiece so far this season.

With the pointy end of the year approaching, the two points on offer in Round 12 are invaluable as the Hunters and Pride both chase a coveted finals berth.

Hunters Commercial Manager, Allan Moramoro and Black Swan International General Manager, Shane Harden announced the new partnership today.

The arrangement with Black Swan International will include providing escort security services for the PNG Hunters team to and from training and game venues, including providing escort for the team when out on community engagements.

The new security arrangement will take effect as soon as the Hunters team return for their preseason camp in 2023.