Hunters in search of fourth straight win

The SP PNG Hunters compelling 2024 campaign continues to gather momentum and faces its next challenge this Sunday against Mackay Cutters at the BB Print Stadium at Mackay, Australia.

The 11th-placed Cutters lie in wait for the Hunters in round 11 of the QRL Hostplus Cup following a run of three straight victories for the Port Moresby- based club.

Big wins over Townsville Blackhawks and Ipswich Jets were complemented by a more complete round 9 performance against the then first-placed Northern Pride, highlighting all of the Hunters improvements made under head coach Paul Aiton this season. 

While Aiton stresses there is still plenty of work to be done, it’s been difficult to deny the way Hunters have kicked off their premiership campaign.

“We’re still quite a young and inexperienced team and we’re learning every day,” said Aiton.

“A lot of our boys are in their first or second year in the Hostplus Cup and it can be challenging to get up every week, not just physically but mentally too.

“It’s been really pleasing to see the players embrace the grind throughout a difficult start to the year.”

The Hunters are orchestrating a glimpse of what looks to be a premiership campaign.

Judah Rimbu has been tasked once again to lead the attack after a classy showdown last week, scoring a hatrick.

His service at dummy half has been commendable, catching defenders off-guard whilst gun centre Alex Max continues to shine in the backline and forwards led by skipper Ila Alu, Benji Kot and Valentine Richard setting the foundation.

Hunters winning streak will be put to test by the Cutters in a much anticipated fixture in Mackay.