Hunters suffer heavy defeat to Blackhawks

THE Townsville Blackhawks proved they are genuine title contenders, with a dominant 48-18 win over the SP Hunters in round 19 of the Queensland Intrust Super Cup.
The Blackhawks secured the emphatic win with eight tries to the Hunters’ three in front of a large and vocal crowd at Jack Manski Oval in Townsville on Saturday afternoon.
The Blackhawks win came on the back of a solid foundation set by Corey Jensen, Thomas Gilbert and Francis Molo, who was a late inclusion in the team.
Halves Shaun Nona and Jaelen Feeney orchestrated some polished backline movements resulting in eight tries for the home team, including a fantastic long-range try by Zac Santo.
Nona topped off a great afternoon with a flawless goal kicking exhibition, nailing eight from eight, including several from the sideline.
“As I said earlier this week, the Hunters are a very physical team, and I was pleased that today we were able to match them,” Blackhawks coach Aaron Payne said.
“There is a really good feel amongst the players, and they are playing with real confidence.
“We now want to make the most of our opportunities and finish as high up the ladder as we can.”
Blackhawks 48 (Bacho Salam, Temone Power, Kalifa Faifai Loa, Zac Santo, Jake Marketo, Cade Maloney, Nathan Traill, Kyle Laybutt tries; Shaun Nona 8 cons) Hunters 18 (Nick Hasu, Kevin Appo, Terry Wapi tries; Ase Boas 3 cons). Results: Tigers 2 Wynnum Manly 18, Blackhawks 48 Hunters 18, Falcons 44 Capras 12, Bears 14 Dolphins 20. – QRL