Big Lomai back with a vengence

 By MELTON PAIS

PAPUA New Guinea SP Hunters forward Timothy Lomai made a powerful return to the Queensland Cup at National Football Stadium in last Sunday’s 11-10 win over the Townsville Blackhawks.

Lomai, who was initially named in Marum’s squad as the 19th man for the Round 6 clash, was bumped up to the bench proper as the Hunters looked to add more size and grit to their reserve list.

The Southern Highlander, who ran out in the No.20 jersey, did not disappoint, making his presence known with several telling carries as well as a hit on Blackhawks forward Brenden Santi, which caused the debutant to lose possession.

Being out of the Hunters camp for a little over six weeks on disciplinary grounds, the 23-year-old was only allowed back to camp three weeks ago after doing his penance, and had put on excess weight in his time away.

But the Pangia native worked hard at training getting his mass down to a manageable 106kg, and is not far off his optimum playing weight of 102kg.

That did not matter much, with the 182cm tall Lomai bulldozing through Blackhawks defenders and generally replicating regular prop Henry Wan’s impact.

Lomai told The National yesterday that he was happy to be back in the team and felt he had done his job in his comeback match.

“My first game against the Blackhawks with the boys was awesome and I really enjoyed it,” Lomai said.

“I am very grateful to Michael (Marum) for believing in me and allowing me to take the field.”

Lomai said he was still some way off his best form, in particular his match fitness, but was pleased to have made a contribution to his side’s gutsy one-point win over the competition leaders.

 “At the moment, all I’m concentrating on is getting fit and ready to play more minutes,” Lomai said. 

“It’s all about training hard and making use of my opportunites.” 

Although he felt the fatigue early after coming on mid-way through the first half, Lomai said shedding a few more kilos and improving his cardio would ensure he continued to play with consistency and intensity.