Hunters Aim to Finish Season Strong

After a two-week break, the SP PNG Hunters resumed their training last week in anticipation of hosting the visiting Western Clydesdales in the QRL Hostplus Cup round 20 fixture at the Santos National Football Stadium on Sunday, August 10th, 2025.

As the 2025 Hostplus Cup heads towards its pointy end of the season, most teams have lifted their performances to secure a spot in the top 8, with the PNG Hunters also fighting to keep their finals hopes alive. 

The SP Brewery-sponsored franchise had an inconsistent season, registering 10 wins and tasting 8 losses. They are in a precarious position, sitting 8th on the ladder, with only 2 points separating them from the teams sitting in 9, 10, and 11 positions, respectively. 

With the Hunters’ season hanging by a thread, the short respite has given the players enough time to work on their combinations, strengths and weaknesses, eyeing to secure their spot in the playoffs.

Despite the Hunters’ mixed season, coach Paul Aiton remains steadfast, highlighting: “We had a fair bit of time off and resumed our training last week. The boys have put in the work early so that we can be competitive in the next four weeks.

“We respect every team, so we can’t afford to take teams lightly. The bigger focus is on ourselves and coming ready to perform every week. We've got two home games and two away games.” 

Aiton revealed that a few players had niggling injuries, but they would be ready to play on Sunday. Sanny Wabo returns to the fullback position, pushing versatile outside back Douglas David to the wing, with the final squad to be announced during the captain's run.

Coach Aiton noted that their four remaining games are crucial, which will decide whether they cement their spot in the top 8 or miss out on the playoffs. He said they needed to win every game to fancy their chances in the finals.

Although the task ahead will be challenging for the Paul Aiton-coached outfit, the PNG Hunters remain optimistic of winning the four remaining games and hoping to appear in the finals for the second time in seven years. 

Meanwhile, coach Aiton urges the Port Moresby fans to turn up in droves to support the PNG Hunters on Sunday when they host the last-placed Western Clydesdales at PNG's spiritual rugby league home ground.