Despite finishing on the wrong side of the scoreboard last week, the SP PNG Hunters are back on home soil this weekend when they host the Northern Pride at the Santos National Football Stadium this Saturday, 27th May in Round 11 of the QRL Hostplus Cup at 3pm.
Staring down a 22-point deficit at one stage, the Hunters roared to life in the second half to score five unanswered tries and finish just four points shy of the Seagulls.
They completely dominated in all key areas in the second half, running through the Wynnum Manly defence with ease and scoring points across the park. Currently sitting just above the Hunters in 9th position on the QRL Hostplus Cup ladder, the Pride need a win to stay in touch of the top eight.
It makes for a titanic clash on Saturday afternoon, with both the Hunters and Pride fighting to hold their position in the middle of the table.
The last time these sides met was in Round 5 this year, when the Hunters travelled to Barlow Park, Cairns but couldn’t best the home side in a 34-14 defeat.
No doubt the Hunters will be eager to avenge that loss when they host the Pride at the Santos National Football Stadium on Saturday afternoon.
Head Coach Stanley Tepend said the club is keen to make the most of a four-game stretch on home soil after finishing strongly in the second half last week.
“We’ve had a tough last few week but it’s exciting to be back home at NFS in front of our fans.”
“It’s a great opportunity for us to perform well, starting with the Pride this weekend.”
“We took a lot of confidence out of how we finished last week’s game against Wynnum Manly, and it’s important we roll that into the Pride game on Saturday.”
Tepend said the focus this week has been internal but admitted the Round 5 loss to the Pride earlier this season will be in the back of their minds.
“We’ve been focusing on ourselves and what we need to improve this week, but I’m sure the boys will be eager to get one back against the Pride this weekend.”
“We’ve improved a lot since then and we get a chance to show that improvement on Saturday.”
Team List
1. Morea Morea
2. Brandon Nima
3. Julius Igila
4. Rodrick Tai
5. Solo Wane
6. Sakias Komati
7. Jamie Mavoko
8. Junior Rop
9. Wesser Tenza
10. Tommy Moide
11. Epel Kapinias
12. Julius Yakopa
13. Ila Alu (captain)
14. Judah Rimbu
15. Sanny Wabo
16. Koso Bandi
17. Seal Kalo
18. Benji Kot
19. Henry Wan Noki
20. Casey Dickson