Worinu takes one game at a time

The SP PNG Hunters' rookie McWin Worinu focuses on improving his game every round and hopes to maintain his spot in the starting lineup until the completion of the 2026 Hostplus Cup season.

Worinu made his official debut for the SP PNG Hunters in Round 12 of the 2026 Hostplus Cup season against the Tweed Seagulls. 

He earned his Queensland Cup debut after successfully recovering from a challenging pre-season injury, and has never looked back.

Worinu said it was challenging for him to immediately click with the Hunters’ system, attributing the struggle to injury, but through his desire to learn and trust the process, he has earned his stripes.  

“I’m privileged to play for the Hunters. The first three games were tough because I returned from a long injury. I had the hunger to play, so coming back from injury and playing was a bonus,” he said. 

The Western Highlander added that though the Hunters had a woeful season, which has affected the club’s spirit, he is working hard to improve his performance as an individual.

“Obviously, we are struggling this year, but I think I have to listen to the coach’s instructions to improve my performance every week,” he said.  

He admitted that he had not expected to get an opportunity to make his first appearance for the Hunters this year, drawing comparisons between the QRL and DEM Cup standards.

“I never thought I would have this opportunity to make my debut this year, but everything happens for a reason,” he said.

“I got my first game in Round 12 against the Tweed Seagulls. I think playing in the Hostplus Cup is a bit different from the DEM Cup. To be here to experience it firsthand is really a blessing for me.”

Despite the Hunters’ sluggish form, Worinu credited captain Ila Alu’s leadership, describing him as a person who has motivated the group and led professionally on and off the field.

There has been criticism from fans on social media, but the youngster said they don't pay too much attention to the outside noise and concentrate on improving and helping turn the club around.

His long-held dream was to play for the Hunters, which he has achieved: "Getting into the Hunters' system was one of the goals I have ticked, and now I look forward to performing consistently."

Facing the 10th-placed Wynnum Manly Seagulls in Brisbane will be a mammoth task for coach Paul Aiton’s men, but young Worinu said the camp had been positive and the players look forward to the challenge.  

The winger made his debut for the Kroton Hela Wigmen in the DEM Cup in 2023, and has grown in leaps and bounds, earning an off-season selection in the Hunters at the backend of the 2025 season and making his debut in 2026.