By GABRIEL KATUHO
PNG Hunters were hit by a string of injuries after last weekend’s loss to Burleigh Bears, according to Assistant Coach Enoch Maki.
He said the team took Monday off before resuming training on Tuesday.
He noted that while some players still carried injuries, their medical staff was working tirelessly to ensure players were fit for the upcoming clash.
Maki said several changes have been made to the line-up: Miles Banam has been ruled out with a calf injury, while Jacob Lot is set to return. Seal Kalo will start, and Carlos’ inclusion depends on Bruce and Douglas’ fitness.
He added that it was too early to predict the team’s final standing in the competition.
“We have the confidence and the team here but it is the little things that we need to fix and we will be okay,” Maki said.
With round eight underway, the Hunters are still working to solidify combinations after losing several players last season.
Despite calls from fans for changes, Maki stressed the importance of sticking to the game plan and trusting the current players.
“Our boys are intact and concentrate on the game. We have to have confidence and trust in them,” he explained.
Addressing discussions around Jamie Mavoko and Ila Alu, Maki acknowledged the challenges of competing in the Hostplus Cup, which he described as “next to NRL”.
He said the players needed more time to develop before being fully entrusted with game responsibilities. “For the meantime they have to be patient,” Maki added.
He said development players and Digicel ExxonMobil Cup talents remained in consideration, especially if injuries affect most of the Hunters.
Maki reiterated that opportunities would come as long as players could adapt to the Hunters’ system and processes.
The Hunters remain focused on improvement, balancing good games with areas that need work. With medical staff, coaching strategies, and development pathways in place, Maki expressed confidence that the team will rise to the challenge in the coming rounds.
Hunters will take on Sunshine Coast Falcons in Round 8 at the Santos National Football Stadium in Port Moresby, and Maki is confident the team would get a win with home ground advantage.