By GABRIEL KATUHO
HUNTERS put on a dazzling display to beat Western Clydesdales 48 -12 in Round 20 of the Hostplus Cup at Santos National Football Stadium yesterday afternoon.
The PNG team dominated both halves and scored tries with great communication between the players.
Hunters’ halfback Joshua Lau, who was in top form after recovering from an ACL injury, led the charge in the middle with five-eight Gairo Voro, who displayed entertaining footy in front of the home fans.
Full back Sanny Wabo made his presence known as he created confusion among the Clydesdales defense by breaking through several times to create try scoring opportunities.
Douglas David on the left wing also put in an impressive performance by scoring his double today.
The final score have been higher if Hunters center Clant Lama had converted six of the nine tries.
Hunters Head Coach Paul Aiton addressed this during the post-match media conference, stating that Lama practiced his goal-kicking every week but he failed to convert the six tries today.
He added that he may consider other goal kickers. Despite this setback, the coach was happy with his team’s overall performance.
“Very happy that the boys have got the win because they have worked hard for it. There is a little bit of frustration because we did not show our way of playing. We were really quiet on the attack, something that we are not really lacking on any skill and attack. We should have done it a little bit more,” Aiton said.
Team captain Ila Alu also expressed his gratitude towards his players for their impressive teamwork, noting that effective communication was the major factor for the win.
He said communication has been the tool for the team’s performance all through the season and with the last three games remaining, he will make sure his team mates maintain effectiveness communication to play well.
Aiton also thanked Hunters’ fans for turning up in numbers to support their home team. Hunters play South Logan Magpies next weekend in Round 21 of the Hostplus Cup.