Hunters’ decision commended

THE decision by the PNG Hunters’ coaching staff to bring in Thomson Tete, Joe Joshua and Stanford Talita into the side must be commended.
Tete and Talita are quality centres and Joshua is a talented fullback.
These players must be included in the starting 17 for the next game.
There is no doubt that each of them will have a positive impact on the Hunters game.
Hunters fans are happy that Joshua has finally been given a call-up into the Hunters.
In my last comment to this column, I raised a view that he was a “potential player” for the Hunters to include in their squad.
Joshua is skillful, a strong defender and smart player.
He has demonstrated key attributes of the modern NRL fullbacks.
He is still young and allowing him to play at the Queensland Intrust Super Cup level will only bring out the best in him.
The Hunters forwards face greater challenge, and from the performance so far, opposing teams seem to find ways to dominate them.
Coach Michael Marum conceded a lack of experience, size, and height were some contributing factors to the recent loss to Burleigh Bears
The tall and big opposition forwards towered over the shorter Hunters.
Hunters’ disadvantage in height and weight has been exploited by opposition teams.
This would be every opposition team’s ploy, unless this problem is fixed.
Losing is an inevitable scenario, but action must be taken to address areas that are having negative impact on the defensive and attacking strategy.
It is about time the coaching staff recall experienced ex-Hunters like Henry Wan, Mark Mexico, Edward Goma, Tuvi Lepan, Blend Abavu, Israel Eliab and Brandy Peter, provided they are currently playing and fit.
These players have proven their ability to deliver at the highest level, and given the current position of the Hunters and lack of experience and injuries, their recall will be a morale and confidence booster for the team.
I believe the challenge is on the Hunters’ players to maintain a higher standard on the field.
If the statistics for individual player’s warrant improvement and they fail to deliver, please coaching staff, drop them.

Hunters
Tok Stret