Hunters terminate Ipape

THE SP Hunters have confirmed that Papua New Guinea Kumuls utility Edwin Ipape has been sacked by the Hostplus Cup side due to indiscipline.
There is speculation that the one-time Manly Sea Eagles train-on squad member’s availability on the open market has prompted interest from rivals in Queensland’s premier rugby league competition.
The South Pacific Brewery-sponsored Hunters told The National yesterday that Ipape’s attitude issues had been ongoing and that he had been given several warnings prior to his sacking a fortnight ago.
“Edwin Ipape has been removed from the SP PNG Hunters squad,” the 2017 champions said in a statement.
“Edwin wasn’t living up to the standards or values that we require at the Hunters.
“He was removed from camp after being given multiple chances to prove that he could turn his attitude around.
“This decision was not taken lightly.
“We made a decision to put the team ahead of any one individual.
“We wish Edwin well in his footballing career.” The former Lae Tiger has so far played three Test matches for the country.
Ipape is now the third player from the last campaign to be axed during the pre-season.
Brendon Gotuno and Norman Brown were shown the door by coach Matthew Church over poor fitness in the second week of the pre-season.