Rimbu debuts in season opener

By PARKER TAMBUA
UTILITY Judah Rimbu made an unexpected Queensland Intrust Super Cup debut in the SP Hunters’ season opener against the Wynnum Manly Seagulls at Bycroft Oval on the Gold Coast on Saturday.
After Friday’s captain’s run, coach Matthew Church made a late change to bring in the 19-year-old who was initially named as the 18th man. Rimbu told The National after Hunters’ 18-20 loss that he was shocked when Church made the late change.
“It was an unreal feeling for me to actually debut in round one as I wasn’t expecting it,” said the Rogoma villager from Kagua, Southern Highlands.
“To be honest, I thought I was going to wait a few more games before I could make my debut.
“I was initially named as the 18th man.
“On Friday, after the captain’s run, I was about to read my Bible in my room when someone knocked on the door.
“It was the coach.
“He came in and told me something I would never forget.
“He said: ‘young man, you’re going to make your debut against Wynnum Manly tomorrow’.
“I was very emotional as I couldn’t believe it.
“The coach told me that it was through my hard work and consistency throughout the pre-season that I had earned a spot in the 17.
“I was so proud to get my official Hunters number in round one.”
Rimbu only played eight minutes at Bycroft Oval.
He ran onto the field in the 72nd minute as a substitute for forward Epel Kapinias.
Despite the short spell, Rimbu said he was grateful to make a few runs which would boost his confidence for the remainder of the season.
“(There was) not enough minutes for me but I’m thankful that I made my debut,” he said.
“I’m continuing to work hard and hopefully I get more game time as the season progresses.”