Big move for prop Minoga

PAPUA New Guinea Hunters coach Michael Marum has opted for an unorthodox approach to solve his centre problems by naming prop/back-rower Willie Minoga in the No.4 jersey for Saturday’s clash with the CQ Capras.
After the departure of centres Thompson Teteh and Noel Zeming, Marum has gone for experience and size in the 100kg Minoga.
The man dubbed the ‘freight train’ by fans and commentators for his whole-hearted charges and impact off the bench will partner another utility, Adex Wera, in the three-quarters for the Intrust Cup Round 1 fixture in Rockhampton.
The burly Engan was given a shot in the side’s Feb 18 trial against the Northern Pride and did enough at centre to convince Marum that he could handle the responsibility of guarding the right edge with flyer William Aquila outside him.
Minoga said the switch to the centres was something unexpected but he enjoyed his chance in the back line and would continue to contribute.
But strangley enough, Minoga despite looking like a natural fit for the pack, actually started his career as a centre for the Lae Tigers from 2012 to 2013 in the Papua New Guinea National Rugby League Digicel Cup.
After making the Hunters squad in 2014, coach Marum decided his talents were better suited in the forwards and Minoga’s star rose as he earned a reputation over the course of the club’s first two seasons for his fearless hit-ups and almost Russell Bawden like effect on the Hunters game.
Sometimes referred to as the ‘Wapenamanda Mack Truck’, the 29-year-old said he had no qualms about playing in his old position, even if it was at the Q-Cup level.
“This is not a new position to me and I’m looking forward to combining with Adex,” Minoga said comparing his crash-and-bash style to Wera’s incisive offence.
After a one-year stint with the Townsville Blackhawks Minoga said he was thankful for the experience but was proud to be back in the Hunters fold — back in familiar territory.
“It’s good to be back with the guys.”
Marum, who is not afraid to try new things, said the Minoga experiment would continue for the forseeable future.