By GABRIEL KATUHO
THE SP PNG Hunters will go up against Wynnum Manly Seagulls for the round eight of the QLD Hostplus cup competition at the Santos National Football Stadium.
After reclaiming the historic Kokoda Cup during ANZAC round last Saturday, Hunters are again up for another exciting home soil match against Seagulls this Sunday 4th of May 2025.
Hunters Head Coach Paul Aiton (pictured) was impressed by his players’ performance that claimed the Kokoda cup.
“I think the defense scramble was impressive and we have been able to do that right away.
“We are pretty much known for scrambling really well. The only issue is getting ourselves in that position all the time,” he said.
Despite last week’s victory against the Beers, Beers were fast enough to score three tries within five minutes, and that was one of the areas Hunters needed to mend defensively.
While responding to question asked about his side, Aiton said it was bit embarrassing for team.
“That was little bit frustrating for us so we really worked a lot following the video just by not putting ourselves in that position,” he said.
Hunters have gone through their usual training, aiming at reducing error count, focusing on penalties, and making tackles.
“I know it will be another tough game this weekend. They (opponent) know they are playing against the Hunters at home so they will be prepared well for the game,” he stated.
Meanwhile, Koso Bandi, who suffered from a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) from ANZAC round, joined Whallen Tau-Loi and Benji Kot who suffered from the similar injury.
As a result, Jacob Lot was given the opportunity to step up at the starting line up while Elijah Roltinga returns from the injury.
Aiton said he is keeping Elijah Roltinga at close scrutiny to make sure he is okay for the weekend’s game.
“We’ve got him in there but we are just making sure everything is good before the weekend. We are giving him much time as possible; we do not rush him back so we want to make sure he is good to go.”