Papua New Guinea Eyes Trade Deal with Japan After 50 Years of Diplomatic Ties

The Townsville Blackhawks edged out the SP PNG Hunters 36-26 in an action-packed Round 10 encounter of the Hostplus Cup, played at Jack Manski Oval in Townsville.

The Blackhawks set the tone early with a blistering start, scoring four tries in the opening 20 minutes. Edward Hampson crossed twice in the 6th and 10th minutes, followed by tries from Kane Jackson and Jayden Hodges. Kaiden Lahrs added to the tally in the 29th minute, helping the home side to a 24-10 lead at halftime.

Despite trailing, the SP PNG Hunters fought back gallantly. Gairo Voro sparked the comeback with a try in the 34th minute, supported by Finley Glare and Alex Max crossing in quick succession around the break. Voro scored his second in the 47th minute, and Brandon Nima added another in the 65th minute to keep the Hunters in the contest.

However, the Blackhawks were relentless. Edward Hampson completed a hat-trick in the 60th minute, while Hodges bagged his second in the dying stages to seal the win. Matthew Wright slotted four successful conversions for the hosts.

Jamie Mavoko and Trevor Solu converted three goals between them for the Hunters, but it wasn’t enough to overturn the deficit.

The win keeps Townsville in strong form as the competition heats up, while the SP PNG Hunters will look to regroup ahead of Round 11.

Also read

Papua New Guinea Eyes Trade Deal with Japan After 50 Years of Diplomatic Ties