Senior PNG Police Officer Arrested Over Illegal Eviction Deaths

The SP PNG Hunters are gearing up for a high-stakes Round 8 clash against the Wynnum Manly Seagulls in the Hostplus Cup this Sunday at the Santos National Football Stadium in Port Moresby. Coming off a gritty ANZAC Round win over the Burleigh Bears—where they reclaimed the coveted Kokoda Cup—head coach Paul Aiton remains focused on sharpening his team’s discipline and defense ahead of the tough encounter.

SP PNG Hunters Brace for Seagulls Clash Amid Injury Setback to Koso Bandi [SP Hunters Photo]

While Aiton lauded the team’s resilience and scrambling defense against Burleigh, he was quick to acknowledge the need to avoid repeatedly placing themselves under pressure. “We’re known for scrambling really well, but we need to stop putting ourselves in that position in the first place,” he said. The coach stressed the importance of improving focus in the latter stages of games to prevent costly errors and penalties, which have previously led to last-minute tries.

Adding to their challenges, the Hunters have been dealt a major blow with the confirmation that forward Koso Bandi has suffered a serious ACL injury. The setback will see him sidelined for an extended period. “It’s really unfortunate,” Aiton shared. “Koso was beginning to get back into his groove and playing some quality football. To do his ACL at this stage — it’s a real shame.” The injury compounds a growing list of long-term absences within the squad, putting additional strain on team depth.

Despite the disappointment, Aiton is looking at the injury crisis as an opportunity for emerging players to step up. “Injuries are never what you want, but they do open the door for some of the younger boys to show us what they can do,” he said, noting that such moments often reveal the next wave of key contributors. The club has assured that Koso will receive the best possible medical care and rehabilitation support in both PNG and Australia, and they are committed to assisting him through his recovery.

Currently sixth on the Hostplus Cup ladder with eight points, the Hunters are just behind the Seagulls, who hold third place with ten points. With both teams eyeing a higher spot in the standings, Sunday’s fixture is expected to be a fiercely contested battle. “We’re expecting their best,” Aiton warned. “This competition is tough, and we won’t be underestimating anyone—especially not when they’re coming to play us at home.”

Also read

Senior PNG Police Officer Arrested Over Illegal Eviction Deaths