THE Papua New Guinea Hunters moved into second spot on the Queensland Cup after handing the Central Queensland Capras a 68-4 thrashing yesterday at the Kalabond Oval in Kokopo.
The 13-try romp was the Hunters’ biggest win since joining the competition last year, with captain Israel Eliab helping himself to four of them.
Hunters coach Michael Marum said he was pleased his team had scored their ninth straight win of the competition despite doing it against the wooden spoon favourites.
“We may have won this match and moved up the ladder but there is still a lot of work to be done with the Redcliffe Dolphins game away.”
He said the team executed the game plan well but expected the visitors to put up a better challenge, which never eventuated as his side dominated from the opening whistle.
“We were aware that they had some problems with fielding 17 players because of visa problems,” Marum said.
“A lot of things didn’t work out for the Capras but again — we have always played well at home.
“A lot of things went our way so we saw the opportunity and came up with the big win.”
Bland Abavu’s replacement on the wing David Lapua proved his potential, scoring a double.
“David played well. He is a good finisher and read the plays well. His performance shows that he is a good back-up player, and whenever there is an injury with our backline, I am sure he will come in and do well,” Marum said.
Noel Zeming and fullback Stargoth Amean grabbed doubles while Lawrence Tu’u, Ase Boas and Nickson Borana picked up a try each in the 64-point win.
Marum said he was pleased with Borana made the most of his opportunity.
“Nickson (Borana) is young forward who has a big future. He’s got lot to learn but he did well today.”
Marum said forwards Timothy Lomai, Brandy Peter, Henry Wan, Esau Siune and Willie Minoga played well with dummy-half Puara controlling ruck well.
“Overall it was an exciting game for use and a great team performance,” Marum said.
He admitted his side started the match a little shabbily with several loose carries but other than that the game went according to plan.
Goal-kicker Zeming hauled in 24 points for the match from eight conversions and two tries.
The only try for the visitors came in the second half to Lance Kuveu, who picked up a loose ball inside the Hunters 20m and beat several defenders to score in the corner.
The Hunters benefited from the Ipswich Jets losing to the Northern Pride 20-14 on Saturday while the Townsville Blackhawks’ match against the Sunshine Coast Falcons has been put off indefinitely.
PNG Hunters 68 (Israel Eliab 4, Stargroth Amean 2, David Lapua 2, Noel Zeming 2, Lawrence Tu’u, Ase Boas, Nickson Borana tries; Zeming 8 goals) Central Queensland Capras 4 (Lance Kuveu try) The National / Pacific Flash