Gumine Hunters lift TNA Cup

By KEVIN TEME in Kundiawa
GUMINE Hunters put up a strong defence to beat Nono Jets 14-8 and take out the inaugural TNA Cup grand final in Kundiawa, Chimbu, on Sunday. Hunters also collected the K10,000 cash prize money.
In the curtainraiser, TNA Blacks beat TNA Green 8-7.
In front of more than 5,000 spectators and fans, Sonny Daing scored the first try for the Hunters after man-of-the-match and fullback Moxii Kee made a break but fell short of the tryline.
In the ensuing halfback Sonny Moses sent a cut out pass to Daing to cross over.
Jets, using Jacky Kuman, Esau Siune and five-eighth Leslie David continued to make yards but to no avail.
Jets skipper Toksie Owi was sent to the sinbin after he was caught for headbutting his opponent. Despite a man down, Hunters failed to capitalise and went to the sheds leading 4-0.
Jets came back firing in the second spell with some strong hit-ups which resulted in a penalty in front of the uprights. David converted to trail 4-2.
But it was shortlived. Winger Michael Singap crossed over for the Hunters before centre Kurai Minge scored to extend their lead to 12-2. Five-eighth Steven Gari converted to the lead 14-2. With time running out, Jets hit back with a try to Oltai Benny which was converted by David to narrow the gap to 14-8.
Despite the loss, Jets walked away with K7,000. The other three teams that finished in third, fourth and fifth placing also collected K5,000, K3,000 and K2,000 respectively.
TNA Lions franchise owner Gerard Philip thanked supporters and the Simbu people for a peaceful tournament in the past 13 weeks leading up to the grand final.
“It is the first time to see a grand final proceed without any violence. I thank you, the fans, families and players for a good 13 weeks of competition,” Philip said.
Lands and Physical Planning Minister Lucas Dawa Dekena commended TNA for hosting a well-organised off-season competition.
“I thank you all for ensuring the competition went peacefully. I praise the organisers for a job well done,” Dekenasaid.
Meanwhile, the TNA Lions squad for the Digicel Cup will be announced after a trial match.