PNG Hunters' performance impresses coach Marum

The PNG Hunters head coach Michael Marum is impressed with the performance of his men in the Queensland Cup against Tweed Heads Seagulls at the Kalabond Oval, in Kokopo, on Sunday.

Marum praised Ase Boas, Kato Ottio, Oti Bland Tony and Stargoth Amean’s performances but said ill-discipline in the second half saw the Hunters score only a single try through Boas.

The Hunters thrashed the Seagulls 38-10 in their Round 4 match in the East New Britain capital. By half-time, the Hunters were leading 34-0.  

Marum said with the support of the big boys up front, it had set the foundation for the foursome to go into overdrive.

“It was unfortunate that we scored only one try through Boas in the final half as we played with an eye on the scoreboard, thinking that we had won the game,” Marum said.

The Hunters will next play two away games (rounds five and six) in Brisbane. Boas, Ottio, Bland Tony and Amean have all scored tries in the match against the Seagulls, with a hat-trick to Boas and a first for Ottio after four matches.

In his debut year, the dynamic Ottio is already creating shockwaves in the competition with his strong runs and defence, which have caused havoc for opposition sides. 

The centre is known for his physical and aggressive dead-stop tackles.

Wingers Tony and Edward Goma have established a solid foundation on the left wing and the duo are proving hard to beat as the season progresses. 

Tony is performing well on the flank formerly held by controversial Hunter and Mt Hagen Eagles winger Gary Lo.  

The Hunters meet Gold Coast Falcons next Sunday . 

PNG Today/The National