Silas makes case for No.9

The National Sports

By ISAAC LIRI

HAVING a spot in the PNG Hunters team is no guarantee.
This is one of the many notions shared by PNG Hunters coach Michael Marum in the recent past since the SP Brewery-sponsored side made its Q-Cup debut in 2014.
From that time on, the Hunter’s programme has proven to be a success with players such as Justin Olam and Kato Ottio offered contracts with NRL clubs, but having to cement a permanent position in the Hunters does not come easy.
Twenty-three-year-old Silas Gahuna has a fair idea on the hitches that are taken to earn a spot in the Hunters.
And with that thought at the back of his mind, just like his other colleagues, he wants to lock in that No. 9 jersey.
Having had impressive performances in the two games this season, assistant coach Nigel Hukula talked highly about Gahuna; his speed from dummy half and his strength to take on defenders on the line despite his size.
The lad from Baruni and Morobe is telling everyone through his actions that he wants to stay.
Replacing regular PNG Hunters hooker Wartovo Puara who is currently on rehab, Gahuna is not the only one that can play hooker in the squad.
Lae Snax Tigers Noel Joel is another prospect and that builds a healthy rivalry within the camp.
“I know that it is hard, I knew that since I joined the Hunters, Wartovo and Noel are great players too, but for me, I have to do my part,” Gahuna says.
“The coach has given me the opportunity and all I can do is do the little things right, stick to the game plan, play the basics and do the small things right both on and off the field.
“I would love to play the whole season, lock in that jersey, but I know that the jersey does not belong to me, I have to earn it by playing hard in every game.
“The number 9 jersey belongs to the team, I just have to give my best in every game to maintain it whether it’s playing at home or away.
“So I have been working hard on training, doing my rehab sessions, working on my speed and agility just to lock in that number 9 jersey,” Gahuna said.
Apart from doing his best to earn a Hunters spot every week, Gahuna also shared his long term goal of donning a PNG Kumuls jumper one day.
“My long term goal is to become a Kumul player one day, and I know that it’s not easy.  That is why I am giving my best every week and hopefully I get that opportunity one day,” Gahuna added.