Rookie Hunter Piti ready to fill void left by Meninga

By JOSEPH REMA
SP Hunters rookie Mark Piti says he is ready to fill the void left behind by Moses Meninga (Townsville Blackhawks), McKenzie Yei (Central Queensland Capras) and Dilbert Isaac (back injury).
The 25-year-old, from Hanuabada village in the National Capital District, said it was big task ahead for him but he was looking forward to pick from where the forward trio had left off.
“I have to work hard in order to meet their standards,” Piti said at the Sir John Guise Stadium in Port Moresby yesterday.
The prop began his rugby league career with Port Moresby Rugby Football League outfit Hanuabada Hawks and went onto to play with Digicel Cup side Port Moresby Vipers before finding a home with the Lae Tigers.
With two Digicel Cup titles, Piti is eager to go a step further by holding down a regular starting spot in Matthew Church’s Intrust Super Cup side.
“This is my first time to make the final cut for the Hunters and I’m grateful for going up another level in my rugby league career,” he said.
Piti said although the training was tough, he was putting his best foot forward in adjusting to Church’s coaching methods.
The forward said he had learned so much from Stanley Tepend that he was keen on doing his Digicel Cup mentor proud by improving himself as a player and person.
“He taught me many things about life and football on and off the field and how to become a good player. I thank him for his guidance and encouragement,” Piti said.
He also acknowledged the support of his family and friends in Hanuabada.