Marum thankful for ‘Graveyard’

 THE Kalabond ‘graveyard’ myth could give the Papua New Guinea Hunters a good start to their Intrust Super Cup semi-professional rugby league campaign in Queensland.

Following a tough opening match against heavyweights Redcliffe at the Dolphin Oval next Sunday, the SP Brewery-sponsored Hunters have been given a bonus three consecutive matches at their home-ground in Kokopo, East New Britain.

Hunters coach Michael Marum, picture,  said it is a good opportunity to utilize the home-ground advantage and yes it is a bonus to us to have those early games at home, but reiterated that it will be tougher than expected.

“Even at home I know it will be tough but at this stage I would prefer to work each game one at a time,” Marum said.

“But in saying that we are focused on each of our daily training sessions before any of the games to make sure our players are prepared well enough to meet heavy demands set,” Marum added.

The East New Britain people are expected to jam pack the Kalabond Oval as they will be given a rare treat this year.

With the Hunters soon to relocate in their newly adapted home, it would be beneficial to get a good start to ensure they get a good run to the play-offs by Game 26.

The Hunters will have their team launch and major fund-raiser tomorrow at the Dynasty Restaurant at Vision City. 

The team captain will announced with special guests in rugby league immortals Wally Lewis and Andrew Johns being present as well. 

The Kalabond Oval, dubbed the nemesis for all visiting teams for the Agmark Gurias in the Digicel Cup competition, may have the same affect on the Hunters 12 home games from 26 matches.

If the team backs up well from Redcliffe, they can push their home-ground advantage to the fullest against reigning premiers the Mackay Cutters (March 8), the Central Queensland Capras (March 15) and the Northern Pride (March 22), they could see themselves amongst the top rung.  

The last time a Papua New Guinean rugby league side participated in the Queensland state competition was in 1996-1997 when the Port Moresby Vipers represented the country.

The club ran into financial difficulties and could not sustain itself in the competition and dropped out after two years.