The Papua New Guinea SP Hunters claim victory over the Tweend Seagulls 42-30 in round 21 of the 2024 Queensland Rugby League Cup at the Santos National Football Stadium in Port Moresby on Saturday 10th August.
With every game now crucial to determine their finals position, the strong 17- man SP Hunters were relentless and drove their momentum with opportunities to advance themselves into taking the lead.
The SP Hunters Judah Rimbu was first to open the score board in the first minute of the first half, along with a second from Valentine Richard in the 5th minute with 1 out 2 successful conversions by Five Eight Jamie Mavako.
Tweed Seagulls Toby Mark’s, Carter Gordon and Team Captain responded with a short side corner try and close center try in the 10th, 15th and 20th minute, leading the Hunter after 20 minutes, 18-10.
However, the SP Hunters were too determined to let the lead remain as Brendon Nima and Sanny Wabo scored the final tries in the first half in the 32nd and 38th minute, taking back the lead into the second Half, 22-18.
The Tweed Seagulls were overwhelmed with a strong forward pack, driving through the defense line with ease.
The SP Hunters left no room for errors as they responded in the second half with three tries while the Seagulls gathered only one try by Tom Steadman in the 65th minute.
SP Hunters Joshua Lau scoring first in the second half in 5minutes, followed by the double try scorers Sanny Wabo and Brendon Nima in the 67th and 69th minute. This was followed by a successful penalty kick by Jamie Mavako.
Despite all successful conversion by Seagulls Captain and full back Lindon McGrady and the SP Hunters failing one conversion out of seven by Jamie Mavako, SP Hunters additional tries and conversions points were too rich to beat.
The Seagulls scored 5 tries and 5 successful conversions while the SP Hunters scored 7 tries and 6 out of 7 conversions successful including a penalty to claim the win 42-30.
Hunters secure themselves to remain in the top eight on the points ladder. They now rest up and prepare to face the Brisbane Tigers next week August 18th, 3pm, at the Santos NFS Port Moresby.