 The SP PNG Hunters are one step closer to claiming the prestigious Hostplus Cup title after defeating the Sunshine Coast Falcons 24-10 in a semi-final clash at Sunshine Coast Stadium, Australia. The win propels the Hunters into the preliminary final, where they will face the Norths Devils for a chance to secure a spot in the grand final.
The Falcons dominated the opening 20 minutes of the match, maintaining possession and pressuring the Hunters' defense. Despite their efforts, the Falcons struggled to break through the Hunters’ resilient defense, failing to gain an early lead. The SP PNG Hunters delivered a commanding performance in their Round 22 Hostplus Cup match, overpowering the Brisbane Tigers 46-24 at the National Football Stadium in Port Moresby. This decisive victory ensured the Hunters' place in the top eight on the ladder.
The Hunters set the pace early, with Sanny Wabo scoring a try in just the fourth minute, igniting what would become a high-scoring game. Solo Wane quickly followed with another try at the 8th minute. Ila Alu extended the lead further with a try at the 15th minute, and Brandon Nima added to the tally at the 32nd minute. Judah Rimbu was also in top form, scoring twice, once at the 35th and again at the 53rd minute, while Finley Glare crossed the line just before halftime at the 40th minute.  Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea – The SP PNG Hunters delivered an impressive performance at the National Football Stadium, defeating the Tweed Heads Seagulls 42-30. The result solidifies their standing in the Hostplus Cup and highlights their strong form this season.
The Hunters' attack was spearheaded by a series of tries from several key players. Judah Rimbu kicked off the scoring with a try in the first minute, soon followed by Valentine Richard’s contribution at the 5-minute mark. Brandon Nima made a significant impact with tries at the 32nd and 69th minutes, while Sanny Wabo added two tries at the 38th and 57th minutes. Joshua Lau also made his mark with a try at the 45th minute, showcasing the Hunters' offensive strength. In a thrilling development for Papua New Guinea Hunters fans, halfback Jamie Mavoko is set to make his return from injury for their pivotal Hostplus Cup Round 21 encounter against the Tweed Heads Seagulls this Sunday, with kickoff scheduled for 3pm.
Mavoko’s comeback is a major boost for the Hunters, who have been struggling with their form. Initially, coach Paul Aiton had planned to use utility Joshua Mire in the halfback role during the week’s training. However, Mavoko’s return has shifted Mire to the 18th man spot for the crucial fixture at the National Football Stadium.  The SP Hunters are set to take on the Ipswich Jets in a highly anticipated Hostplus Cup round 10 clash at the National Football Stadium tomorrow, with a 3pm kick-off. Despite the Jets languishing at the bottom of the 15-team ladder, Hunters coach Paul Aiton has cautioned his players against underestimating their opponents.
“We will treat the Jets the same way we treated the Blackhawks and Northern Pride. They might not be performing well on the ladder, but at this level, you have to be prepared for anything,” Aiton emphasized. “Three straight wins would be great, but we have our own targets and goals, both as a team and individually. We want to focus on getting the little things right in each training session and not dwell on last week’s results. This is a new battle, and we are focused and ready.” |
