The SP PNG Hunters have opened their 2023 account with a 20-10 victory over the Western Clydesdales in dull conditions at Clive Berghofer Stadium on Sunday afternoon. The SP PNG Hunters opened the score board by putting the first try and a conversion followed it. Two more tries by the Hunters, but with no conversion. This saw the PNG boys lead 14 to 0. However, just before half- time, the Western Clydesdales score one try to make it a 10 points deference. Both teams went into half- time with 14- 4. The second half was toughly fought out, but the SP PNG Hunters boys had the upper hand, closing the their season opener match with a win. SP PNG Hunters Head Coach Stanley Tepend was delighted with his side’s effort in the trying conditions. “The way we defended our line early on was pleasing,” said Tepend. “They had a few chances to attack our line early with back-to-back sets, but we adjusted to the conditions well and managed to withstand their attacking raids early and get off to a good start.” “To go down the other end and score with our first opportunity in attack was big for us. It was our first game with a number of debutants, but a good start helped to settle the nerves. That was an important win.” Meanwhile, SP PNG Hunters debutant Morea Morea took the Hastings Deering Player of the Match.