PNG Hunters announce team for preliminary final against Ipswich Jets

The Papua New Guinea SP Hunters team has been announced to take on the high flying Ipswich Jets in the preliminary final this Sunday. Several of the Hunters players have been omitted for this final game. Brandy Peter is replaced by Nickson Borana while  Edward Goma displaces Thompson Teteh to the bench. 

The Hunters management and the coaching staff were hopeful to hots the Ipswich Jets in PNG, however, the QLD rugby league board has decided to take the game back to Australia.  The following reason was given why the Hunters could not host the Jets in PNG. 

''In light of recent comments regarding the Intrust Super Cup finals, the QRL would like to clarify a number of issues with the following release:

·         The Hunters were eligible to play the Qualifying Final at their home ground last weekend. However, because they finished second, the minor premiership-winning Townsville Blackhawks received the hosting rights.

·         The QRL has been aware for some time now that the Hunters could be in the Preliminary Final. QRL staff travelled to PNG to explore logistics and the costings associated with a live Preliminary Final broadcast as per our contractual obligations. Unfortunately, neither the Hunters, nor the game’s current funding model, could meet the estimated cost of more than $200,000. 

·         As a result, the QRL consulted with its clubs and determined that Sunday’s Preliminary Final between the Hunters and Ipswich Jets would be played at a neutral venue. We anticipate a packed BMD Kougari Oval and an electric atmosphere between two of the competition’s most entertaining teams.' 

The Hunters team that will face the Jets are : 

1. Stargroth Amean 2. Oti Bland Tony 3. Noel Zeming 4. Edward Goma 5. Adex Wera 6. Israel Eliab (c) 7. Ase Boas 8. Henry Noki 9. Wartovo Puara 10. Esau Siune 11. Nickson Borana 12. Kato Ottio 13. Timothy Lomai 14. Warren Glare 15. Atte Bina 16. Willie Minoga 17. Thompson Teteh 18. David Lapua 19. Roger Laka