Dumped trio back in line-up

The National Sports

By ISAAC LIRI
SP PNG Hunters coach Michael Marum has reshuffled his line-up for Saturday’s Round 5 Intrust Super Cup clash against the Norths Devils with captain Adex Wera ruled out with injury while three players who missed last week’s loss to Easts return.
Skipper Wera sustained a bruised hip while wing Wawa Paul and prop Moses Meninga miss out with ankle injuries.
Last week’s suspended trio Joe Joshua, McKenzie Yei and Junior Rop return while experienced duo Bland Abavu and Stanton Albert have been dropped while Joe Joshua, Junior Rop and Mckenzie Yei return to the starting line-up after serving their one week suspension.
“Josh, McKenzie and Junior trained well while the team was away and report from my staff was really good so they’re back in the team,” Marum said.
Brendon Nima has been given a chance in the centres after debuting on the wing in Round 1.
The other notable change to the backline is the return of Brendon Gotuno after a short stint with the Penrith Panthers Q-Cup side.
“Brendan spent some time down in Australia and it’s good he’s back so I’m hoping he can show us what he learned,” Marum said.
Hooker Woods Kawage will start at hooker after an impressive debut last week.
Incumbent No.9 Charlie Simon moves to the extended bench.
Making their debuts this week are Jerry Teme (Hunter No.78) and Jack Oii (No.79) .
Marum commended last week’s debutants in Shane Haro, Epel Kapinias and Kevin Appo who retained their spots.
“Jerry is a talker and an organiser so this will be an chance for him while Jack is a promising player we picked out from Port Moresby Rugby League,” Marum said.
Marum praised his halves Ase Boas and Justin Yoka and believed that given enough time they would turn the team around.
Hunters: 1. Joe Joshua 2. Junior Rau 3. Shane Haro 4. Brendan Nima 5. Brendan Gotuno 6. Justin Yoka 7. Ase Boas 8. Baundo Aba 9. Woods Kawage 10. Dilbert Isaac 11. Mckenzie Yei 12. Epel Kapinias 13. Junior Rop.
Reserves: 14. Jerry Teme 15. Jack Oii 16. Kevin Appo 17. Enoch Maki 18. Joe Frank 19. Bland Abavu 20. Charlie Simon (two to be ommitted).