Laybutt baggs double on debut

Zac Laybutt scored two tries on his debut on Sunday, 15th October, leading the way for the PNG Kumuls to claim victory over the Cook Islands with a 46-10 full-time score at the Santos National Football Stadium in Port Moresby.

The 21-year-old has had an incredible first year of his professional footy career. Laybutt debuted for the North Queensland Cowboys in round 13 of the National Rugby League (NRL) earlier this year. He has made four NRL appearances, scoring three tries in the 2023 season.

During the Pacific Test, Laybutt scored the opening try for the Kumuls six minutes into the first half and the second try in the opening minutes of the second half, racking up a 65% successful conversion rate.

Kyle, Zac’s big brother and Kumuls' Captain, applauded his brother for his strong performance.

“I’m super proud of him. I think he deserves everything he gets, as he works really hard. I thought he played really well today,” Kyle commented on his brother.

Meanwhile, Valentine Richard, who was also another debutant scored a try. He went on to reveal that it was a big moment for him.

The Kumuls will rest this weekend and will take on the Fiji Bati the following weekend, October 29.