PNG Hunters ready for East Tigers despite injury concerns

PNG Hunters ready for East Tigers despite injury concerns.
Photo credit. PNG Hunters

The Papua New Guinea Hunters are preparing to continue their winning streak  in the Intrust Super Cup this weekend despite some injury concerns. Some of the notable players ruled out for the game against East Tigers due to injuries include 2013 World Cup Kumul forward Enoch Maki and impressive winger David Lapua. 

 Marum still believes his boys can pull off a better performance. Marum says "Still without prop Timothy Lomai, Marum will test out rookie Jayjay Garrison in the forward pack. 

“He can play forward and with the help of experienced Hunters such as Willie Minoga and Adam Korave, I am counting on them to have a good run this weekend,” Marum said.

To strengthen the forwards and give some height, young Kumul in the making Kato Ottio has been shifted to the back row. 

Marum said Ottio had a tremendous game in the back row last weekend. 

“His speed, height and strength will help in attacking and defence,” he said. 

Kicking ace Noel Zeming was expected to play in this weekend’s game however, due to visa issues, the utility’s services is in question at the moment. 

Another player who has a 50-50 chance of playing this weekend is second-rower Brandy Peter, who is nursing some arm injuries. Marum said despite the setback, they will still improvise and go against the Easts Tigers, who they are yet to beat. 

The Hunters have never beaten the Tigers home or away.  

Team: Stargroth Amean, Bland Abavu, Thompson Teteh, Adex Wera, Edward Goma, Israel Eliab © Roger Laka, Henry Wan, Wartovo Puara, Esau Siune, Kato Ottio, Brandy Peter, Adam Korave. Interchange: Ase Boas, Ate Bina, Willie Minoga, Warren Glare, Noel Zeming, Jayjay Garrison (two to be omitted). Coach: Michael Marum. PNG Today /The National