Wily Wera back at No.1
The National, Wednesday April 13th, 2016
VERSATILE back Adex Wera will play his 50th Intrust Super Cup game at fullback for the Papua New Guinea SP Hunters’ match against Norths Devils on Saturday night at the National Football Stadium in Port Moresby.
Wera’s move to fullback is one of four changes Hunters coach Michael Marum made in the aftermath of last week’s thrilling if not scrappy 11-10 win over ladder leaders the Townsville Blackhawks.
Marum said Wera replaces Stargroth Amean, who suffered a head knock, with Thompson Teteh making a return to the starting side in the centres.
Prop Henry Wan makes a return to the front-row after missing out last week due to compassionate reasons.
Co-captain Adam Korave reverts to the second-row in place of Tuvi Lepan (concussion).
Utility Atte Bina comes back into the side at halfback as Marum takes the load off hooker Wartovo Puara Jr, who has deputised in the role over the last two rounds.
Bina partners young gun Watson Boas, who is quickly improving his game in the halves.
Last Sunday’s hero, Ase Boas, starts from the bench with another notable performer in Timothy Lomai.
Lanky back Bland Abavu has been included on the extended seven-men bench, which include Benjamin Hetra, Edward Goma and Lepan.
Enock Maki and Philemon Kimisive have been rested.
Marum congratulated Wera on his milestone.
“Wera is the second Hunters player and the first back after Wartovo to reach the 50-game milestone,” Marum said.
“He has played in the centres and wing and this week plays his game number 50 at fullback.”
Meanwhile, the Norths Devils are expected to arrive in Port Moresby at midday on Saturday for the 6.30pm kickoff later in the evening.
Hunters: 1. Adex Wera, 2. Justin Olam, 3. Noel Zeming (c), 4. Thompson Teteh, 5. William Aquila, 6. Watson Boas, 7. Atte Bina, 8. Henry Wan, 9. Warren Glare, 10. Esau Siune, 11. Ishmael Balkawa, 12. Adam Korave, 13. Brandy Peter; Reserves: 14. Ase Boas, 15. Timothy Lomai, 16. Benjamin Hetra, 17. Edward Goma, 18. Tuvi Lepan, 19. Wartovo Puara Jr, 20. Bland Abavu (three to be omitted).