Mead scores on return

By PARKER TAMBUA
PAPUA New Guinea Kumul David Mead scored a hat-trick in Brisbane’s 34-16 upset win over the Roosters in round 11 of the National Rugby League at the Sydney Cricket Ground on Saturday.
Demoted by coach Kevin Walters last month, the Central native made his first-grade return and finished with 231 run meters, two tackle busts, a line break and a hat-trick to help his side register their third win of the season.
“It was good to win and be part of the 17 again,” the 33-year-old told The National.
“Tries are always bonus when you win.
“I thought we defended well.
“Our forwards, led by Tevita Pangai Jr and Matt Lodge, played tough and smart which helped us a lot.”
Mead scored his first try in the 26th minute when club debutant Albert Kelly combined with fullback Jamayne Isaako and centre Dale Copley to set up the PNG international on the left edge.
His second try came via an intercept off Roosters playmaker Sam Walker’s pass which saw him run 95 meters to score under the uprights on the stroke of halftime.
Mead scored his third try three minutes from fulltime after he received a pass from Tom Flegler who intercepted another Walker pass deep in Brisbane territory.
He said the win would boost their confidence as they prepare to host fellow PNG international Justin Olam’s Melbourne Storm at Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane on Thursday night.
Meanwhile, Mead said the new rule on high tackles was good.