PNG Hunters recall Teteh

FORMER SP Papua New Guinea Hunters centre Thompson Teteh has been drafted back into coach Michael Marum’s squad as the side looks to shore up its stocks.
The Q-Cup defending champions have started their season with just two wins from seven matches and last week’s 20-12 loss — their third straight loss — to the Souths Logan Magpies in Port Moresby has prompted Marum to bring in the experienced three-quarter who has played three Digicel Cup matches for the Port Moresby Vipers.
“We need some more experience in our squad so we’ve brought in Thompson,” Marum said.
“Thompson was with Redcliffe last year but came back and was waiting on some offers.
“He is available to play for us and we’ve asked to join us and he agreed.
“Our backs are good, they have the talent, the skills but we need players who are used to the Q-Cup level and can settle the team down and help us win.”
Marum said the 28-year-old’s inclusion would also boost morale among the players and put some stability back into a crucial defensive position.
Teteh brings a wealth of experience to the squad having played over 50 Q-Cup games and been part of the Kumuls World Cup squad last year, and although he was not named in the team to play the Burleigh Bears this weekend the 180cm, 92kg back’s inclusion should have a positive effect on the side on and off the field.
Marum revealed that the Hunters had also approached Hela Wigmen centre Stanford Talita, who was initially part of the Hunters pre-season squad but had to withdraw because of studies.
Lae Tigers fullback Joe Joshua was another member of the Hunters pre-season squad but had to withdraw because he was attending college in Lae.
“We approached Standford Talita and Joe Joshua because we thought they would fit in well with our system but unfortunately, they could not make the commitment to us, although they were interested,” Marum said.
Marum said he understood their reasons and said players needed to have priorities and education was something he encouraged for his charges as well.
“At the end of the day, these guys are thinking of their future and we understand that. school and education is very important.”