PNG Hunters vs Townsville Blackhawks Preview

Having equalled their best run of four wins in a row last weekend, the PNG Hunters face their biggest test when they take on the Blackhawks in Townsville this Saturday.

This matchup between the two “newcomers” of the competition features two sides in good form, with the Blackhawks having won their past eight matches – including last weekend’s 28-0 shutout of Tweed Heads.

That win came a price however with Robert Lui injuring his hamstring, forcing him onto the sideline for a number of weeks.

Coach Kristian Woolf has had to make other changes to the side due not only to injury, but also to NRL duty (Kelepi Tanginoa).

Samsen O’Neill and Mitchell Seri have been named to play for the first time this season, with half Seri in good touch for Herbert River. O’Neill is returning after wrist surgery earlier in the year and will replace the injured Moses Pangai.

PNG have been able to keep their successful team that defeated Norths last weekend relatively intact, with Lawrence Tu’u promoted from the bench for Brandy Peter (personal commitments). Roger Laka also drops to an extended bench which includes Warren Glare.

Hunters Team: 1. Stargroth Amean 2. Bland Abavu 3. Noel Zeming 4. Thompson Teteh 5.  Adex Wera 6. Israel Eliab (c) 7. Ase Boas 8. Henry Wan 9. Wartovo Puara Jr 10. Esau Siune 11. Kato Ottio 12. Lawrence Tu’u 13. Adam Korave 14. Atte Bina 15. Warren Glare 16. Willie Minoga 17. Enock Maki 18. Roger Laka
Blackhawks Team: 1. Jahrome Hughes 2. Zac Santo 3. Samsen O’Neill 4. Kyle Feldt 5. Lenny Magey 6. Tom Humble 7. Mitchell Seri 8. Ricky Thorby 9. Anthony Mitchell 10. Daniel Beasley (c) 11. Lorenzo Ma’afu 12. Rhyse Martin 13. Neville Costigan 14. Nathan Norford 15. Chris McLean 16. Noel Underwood 17. Corey Jensen 18. Jack Kelleher

Jack Manski Oval on Saturday, May 23 – 4pm
Referee: Clayton Sharpe
Head-to-Head: First game
Twitter: #intrustsupercup #TSVBvPNG
Live Stream: QRL Live Stream

Source: PNG Today/ qrl.com.au