Laybutt backs Gebbie

By PARKER TAMBUA
TOWNSVILLE Blackhawks five-eighth Kyle Laybutt says he is looking forward to building a combination with fellow Papua New Guinea international Edene Gebbie in the 2022 Hostplus Cup season.
The Kumul No.292 told The National on Friday that the former Wests Tiger, Gebbie, would bring invaluable experience to the Blackhawks.
Laybutt said it was good to see the Koiari native train alongside himself and fellow Kumul Moses Meninga.
“Edene is finding his feet well in the Blackhawks squad,” said Laybutt, who has so far played three Tests for PNG.
“I see that he has been training hard since he joined the side couple of months ago and is willing to learn the way we play.
“I really want to build a combination with him (Gebbie) at training and hopefully we can put up a better performance next year.”
Former North Queensland Cowboy Laybutt is the first choice playmaker for the Aaron Payne-coached side.
However, Laybutt is occasionally used at No.14 or in the centres.
Gebbie, on the other, hand is a winger and fullback. Hence, the Kumuls combination may prove crucial to the Blackhawks’ campaign next season.
Laybutt and Gebbie played together in three Tests as well as the 2019 Rugby League World Cup Nines.
Meanwhile, Laybutt said he is hoping to see front-rower Moses Meninga back in the side next year.
He said the Western Highlander had a disappointing season in 2021 due to an ongoing knee injury.
“I would really love to see Meninga have an injury-free season and playing consistent football,” Laybutt said.