PNG Stars Shine as London Broncos Open New Era With Big Win

PNG rugby league players announced their arrival in style as London Broncos stormed to a 44–12 victory over Widnes Vikings at Cherry Red Records Stadium, marking a memorable first outing under new head coach Jason Demetriou.

The emphatic Challenge Cup opening-round win at Wimbledon yesterday provided the perfect backdrop for several Papua New Guinea players to impress, as the Broncos launched their 2026 campaign with confidence and flair.

PNG Robert Mathias scoring a try for London Broncos/Photo credit: London Broncos Media

Winger Alex Max crossed twice while Robert Mathias added a try of his own, placing PNG talent firmly on the scoresheet as the Broncos dominated from the opening exchanges and set the tone for the rest of the round.

Beyond the tries, the wider PNG contingent showed they belonged at this level. Fullback Morea Morea Junior, prop Epel Kapinias and playmaker Gairo Voro all delivered composed debut performances, blending seamlessly into the Broncos’ attacking structure and defensive systems.

Two other PNG recruits, Finlay Glare and Jeremiah Simbiken, were absent from the matchday squad but are expected to feature when London return to Challenge Cup action against Wests Warriors on January 25.

Demetriou said the strong opening performance was vital for building belief within the squad and reconnecting with supporters in London, noting that attractive football would be central to the club’s ambitions.

He added that the growing PNG presence, combined with experienced recruits such as Raegan Campbell-Gillard and Dean Hawkins, would play a key role in pushing the Broncos toward promotion into the Super League.

Hawkins was named player of the match after a commanding display, while Campbell-Gillard added much-needed power through the middle as London controlled the contest throughout.

With the PNG players set for another run this weekend, the Broncos will again lean on their island contingent as they chase Super League promotion and aim to catch the attention of PNG Chiefs selectors ahead of the planned 2028 NRL entry, with Demetriou saying, “That kind of performance is exactly the standard we want to set moving forward.”