Aiton impressed with Muruks hooker Tenza

ASSISTANT coach Paul Aiton says he is happy with the progress of Mendi Muruks hooker Wesa Tenza who has joined the SP Hunters train-on squad as a late inclusion.
With 2017 Hostplus Cup premiership-winning rake Wartovo Puara Jr on an extended leave, he said the Muruks skipper had a chance to compete for a spot in the final squad that would be named next Wednesday.
Legendary Papua New Guina Kumuls rake Aiton said Port Moresby Vipers development player Kingstimer Paria was also in contention for a spot.
“Tenza has come in,” he said.
“We’ve also got Kingstimer and there are a couple of other players who are also jumping in at No.9 and are doing great at training.
“Tenza has trained with us for only two weeks.
“He is 28 years old and has experience.
“I actually picked Tenza when watching the Digicel Cup last year.
“I like his style of play.
“He can control matches, so I was happy when we brought him into camp in the New Year.”
Aiton said Puara, the most capped Hunter, would re-join the Hunters during the season.
Despite Puara’s absence, Aiton said Tenza and Paraia had to work hard to earn a spot in the final squad.
“Just because you are in the pre-season squad doesn’t mean your spot is guaranteed,” he said.
“Unfortunately, some returning players have been released, so it means that no spots are guaranteed.”