SP PNG Hunters Triumph in Season Opener with Impressive 36-22 Victory Over Wynnum-Manly Seagulls
By Sports Correspondent
In a thrilling start to their 2024 campaign, the SP PNG Hunters showcased their prowess with a commanding 36-22 win over the Wynnum-Manly Seagulls at the Santos National Football Stadium on Saturday. The Hostplus Cup round one fixture, although not at full stadium capacity, provided fans with a glimpse of what the Paul Aiton era has in store for the team.
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| SP PNG Hunters Triumph in Season Opener with Impressive 36-22 Victory Over Wynnum-Manly Seagulls |
Center Clent Lama, one of four debutants, stole the spotlight by securing a hat-trick and contributing two goals, amassing an impressive 16-point total. Another rookie, Weiya Koi, celebrated a memorable debut with a try, while debutants Elijah Roltinga and Robert Mathias showcased their abilities at the Q-Cup level.
Despite a mixed performance from five-eighth Sakias Komati, who kept the Wynnum-Manly defense on their toes with strategic ball handling and a couple of crucial try-assists, his goal attempts proved unsuccessful. The Seagulls' Cruise Ten, on the other hand, faced scrutiny for a lifting tackle on Komati, and Kumul forward Ten's efforts to inspire his team included a notable hit on Koi. However, a late loose carry by Ten led to the Hunters sealing the match with their final try.
The game unfolded with the visitors, Wynnum-Manly Seagulls, taking an early lead through Connor Broadhurst's 11th-minute try. The Hunters, finding their rhythm later in the half, responded with three tries, showcasing Lama, Brandon Nima, and Sanny Wabo's scoring prowess.
Coach Paul Aiton expressed pride in his team's effort, acknowledging the victory as an emphatic start to the season. While conceding that there were areas for improvement, particularly in reducing penalties and tightening defense, Aiton remained optimistic about the team's performance in the upcoming matches.
The final score stood at PNG Hunters 36 (C Lama 3, B Nima, S Wabo, W Koi, J Pat tries; C Lama 2, Trevor Solu 2 con) to WM Seagulls 22 (C Broadhurst, B Donovan, J Stuckey 2 tries; B Donovan 2 con) at Santos NFS, Port Moresby, with the halftime score at 12-10 in favor of the Hunters.
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