Hunters off to Mackay

By ISAAC LIRI
DESPITE Cyclone Debbie wreaking havoc in and around Mackay putting the PNG Hunters Round 5 fixture against the Cutters in doubt, coach Michael Marum confirmed that the team would fly to Queensland today.
Marum said the possible cancellation of the match was not off the table for the Queensland Rugby League however his squad wanted to make the trip to Cairns before travelling by bus to Mackay for tomorrow night’s game at BB Print Stadium.
Marum said no changes had been made to the squad announced on Tuesday, and the two players omitted from the 20-man squad were Butler Morris and Paul Wawa with William Aquila named as the 18th man.
“For us, we have been doing our normal training as usual and all the players have their minds set for the game,” Marum said.
The 43-year-old referred to their 32-18 loss to the Norths Devils last weekend as a wake-up call for the team driving the players throughout training this week.
“I think the loss last weekend has given the boys something to think about and there has been a change in behaviour which is good.
“After our loss, we talked about it together as a group and now we are ready to move on,” Marum said.
Looking at their opponents for this weekend, Marum was certain the Cutters had prepared well and would be hungry for win at home especially after Cyclone Debbie having affected many of their fans.
“The danger in the Mackay side will be that they are playing at home and will be motivated,” Marum said.
“They will be tough to beat like all other teams will play when we are away.
“They’ve got a big forward pack again and a new coach and even though they have struggled for two years I know they’ve been studying our style of play so again, we will not take them lightly,” Marum said.
He said a victory would go a long way in making up for last week’s disappointment at home.
SP PNG Hunters: 1. Bland Abavu 2. Stargroth Amean 3. Israel Eliab 4. Willie Minoga 5. Karo Kauna Junior 6. Ase Boas (C) 7. Watson Boas 8. Henry Wan 9. Gahuna Silas 10. Esau Siune 11. Nixon Put 12. Moses Meninga 13. Stanton Albert; Reserves: 14. Noel Joel 15. Enoch Maki 16. Ishmael Balkawa 17. Radley Brawa 18. William Aquila.