Spots open in Hunters squad as Amean withdraws due to work

PAPUA New Guinea international Stargroth Amean has withdrawn from the SP Hunters ahead of their relocation to Australia for the Queensland Intrust Super (ISC) next season.
Hunters coach Matthew Church said yesterday that the 29-year-old and fellow PNG Kumul Edene Gebbie, who has been signed by the Wests Tigers on a season-long development contract, would not be part of his 2021 squad.
“With Edene and Stargroth leaving, there is an opportunity for outside backs and fullback but we are looking at our options,” he said.
“We’ve already looked at few players but I will not reveal their names at this stage.”
Amean said on Facebook that he decided to remain in his job with the National Capital District Commission.
“I have had a long conversation with Church and head trainer Solomon Kulinasi and explained everything to them and we have a mutual understanding,” he said.
“I have weighed out everything in terms of work and playing for the Hunters and with no regrets and peace in my heart, I’ve chosen work.”
Meanwhile, Church said the pre-season camp had been positive since it started last week with senior players leading by example at training.
“We are focusing on transition, the game speed in Digicel Cup is a long way from ISC standards,” he said.
“With the six-again rule, the game is faster.
“We are getting these players to train above the game speed and have a feel of it.
“So when we get into the actual game, it makes things a lot easier.
“I am really happy with the players, they have been training well.
“We haven’t had any injuries until today (yesterday) with Joe Joshua hobbling a bit but that’s normal.
“It happens when you are six weeks off (after the Digicel Cup season) and back the first week.
“But all is good at the moment.”