Hunters trio stand out

PAPUA NEW Guinea SP Hunters trio of Alex Max, Joshua Lau and Whallan Tau-Loi were named in the Hostplus Cup team of the week following their big win over Townsville Blackhawks in the round eight clash over the weekend.
Former Rabaul Guria Max scored a hattrick, ran for 260 meters, made four line breaks, six tackle-busts and was the top performer in the Hunters’ 52-16 win.
Max played a couple of games this season coming off the bench as a utility.
Last week’s game saw him start at centre which was his normal position and he immediately made an impact, showing where he belongs.
The man from Chimbu got the chance to be the starting centre after Robert Mathias could not travel due to Townsville due to his ongoing visa issue.
Hunters coach Paul Aiton had no choice but to retain Max at centre for the home clash against Northern Pride on Saturday following his excellent performance, with Mathias named at No.18.
Five-eighth Lau also had a great game last week with three try assists, a line break and a tackle-bust.
Lau retains his spot but he will be missing his halves partner Jami Mavoko who is likely to miss the round nine match due to HIA protocols.
Sakias Komati is the apparent replacement but Aiton is yet to make a decision on who will be wearing the No.7 jersey.
Tau-Loi was also outstanding playing at second-row. The Central Dabaris product scored a double, culminating two line breaks and seven tackle breaks during Sunday’s match in Townsville.
The trio will be looking for consistency following a top performance in round eight as they prepare to host the Northern Pride.
Hunters: 1. Sanny Wabo 2. Brandon Nima 3. Alex Max 4. Elijah Roltinga 5. Solo Wane 6. Joshua Lau 7. TBC 8. Valentine Richard 9. Judah Rimbu 10. Anthony Worot 11. Whallan Tau-Loi 12. Benjamin Kelly 13. Ila Alu Interchange: 14. Finley Glare 15. Jordan Pat 16. Koso Bandi 17. Seal Kalo