Hunters surge into top 6

Hunters' players in a post-try celebration during Hostplus Cup round 10 match against Jets (Hunters)

PNG Hunter's formidable run in Queensland Rugby League competition continues to show promising signs after earning a 36-18 victory over Ipswich Jets.

The round 10 clash also extended the Hunters winning streak to three consecutive wins, elevating the team to sixth position on the Hostplus Cup ladder.

The Hunters are steadily climbing to the top spot after staging a high-flying performance in front of home fans at the Santos National Football Stadium.

Head coach Paul Aiton said the win reflects their trust in the club’s pathways and sticking to their structure and process.

“It’s good to have a win, but I think it’s reinforcing things that we already know as a team,” Aiton said after the 18-point victory on Saturday.

“It doesn’t matter whether you’re first or last, you’ve got to have respect for the opposition and treat them the same way and play them the same.

The Papua New Guinea-based franchise is slowly reviving its premiership-winning spirit that once ignited them to be QRL champions in 2017.

Hunters' utility Finley Glare in action against Ipswich Jets in round 10 of the Hostplus Cup (Hunters)

After missing out on the finals for seven consecutive years, the Hunters are netting a spirited campaign to end the finals drought, under the guidance of the former NRL and Super League star.

Whilst it’s too early to predict Hunter's hopes in the 2024 quest, the team is on the right path to finish strong this season if they’re serious about finals contention.

The Paul Aiton-coached outfit stacked with confidence following their third straight win will face Mackay Cutters in round 11 of the Hostplus Cup this Saturday at the BB Print Stadium.