Marum puts heat on Eliab to rise to challenge

SP PAPUA New Guinea Hunters five-eighth Israel Eliab, pictured, is under pressure to regain some of the form the saw him recognized as the Intrust Super Cup’s leading No.6 two years in a row (2014-2015).
The Hunters play the Norths Devils in a Round 4 clash expected to provide plenty of fireworks as matches between the two sides have over the last three seasons.
Despite playing in an unbeaten side over the opening three rounds, Eliab has been a shadow of the player that made a habit of scoring tries from virtually anywhere on the field and posed a clear and present danger to opposition defences with ball in hand.
But the 26-yeasr-old is not the only prodigal son back plying his trade in the Q-Cup with former Parramatta Eels and South Sydney halfback Chris Sandow set to make an appearance for the Devils at the National Football Stadium.
Hunters coach Michael Marum said Eliab, although a key member of the side’s attacking spine, had been flat over the first three rounds and needed to “show something soon”.
“Israel hasn’t found his rhythm and form yet after three rounds but he knows it and he’s working hard to get things right,” Marum, who is also the Kumuls coach, said.
“There’s no more excuses for Izzy, he’s got to pull up his socks. We need to see an improvement in all areas: kicking, running, defence, attack, the whole package. He’s got the potential but we need to see it.
There’s a May Test and even though his name has been mentioned, right now his form doesn’t guarantee selection.
“Performance and form is what matters.”
Eliab won’t be the only cog in Marum’s machine that needs to lift with fullback Stargroth Amean another player the 43-year-old has his eye on.
“Star returned last week and had a good game. He scored a try and played well. We’ll see how he goes this weekend.”
The Hunters have no major injury concerns apart from the niggles that have plagued captain Ase Boas who has shoulder, chest and hamstring complaints. Adex Wera (ribs) and Willie Minoga (thigh) have managed with their injuries over the last two matches.
The match will be live on TVWAN (Channel 117) at 3pm on Sunday.