The SP PNG Hunters showcased a commanding display of rugby as they triumphed over the Brisbane Tigers in a thrilling Round 22 Hostplus Cup match at the National Football Stadium in Port Moresby. The Hunters secured a decisive 46-24 victory, maintaining their position within the top eight on the ladder.
The match began with an explosive start from the Hunters, with Sanny Wabo crossing the line in just the fourth minute, setting the tone for what would be a high-scoring encounter. Solo Wane followed quickly, scoring another try at the 8th minute. Ila Alu extended the lead further with a try at the 15-minute mark, and Brandon Nima added another in the 32nd minute. The Hunters were relentless, with Judah Rimbu scoring two tries, one at the 35th and another at the 53rd minute, while Finley Glare also joined the scoring spree with a try just before halftime at the 40th minute.
The match began with an explosive start from the Hunters, with Sanny Wabo crossing the line in just the fourth minute, setting the tone for what would be a high-scoring encounter. Solo Wane followed quickly, scoring another try at the 8th minute. Ila Alu extended the lead further with a try at the 15-minute mark, and Brandon Nima added another in the 32nd minute. The Hunters were relentless, with Judah Rimbu scoring two tries, one at the 35th and another at the 53rd minute, while Finley Glare also joined the scoring spree with a try just before halftime at the 40th minute.
Jamie Mavoko was in fine form with the boot, successfully converting six of the eight tries, adding crucial points to the Hunters’ tally. His conversions came at the 5th, 17th, 33rd, 37th, 42nd, 54th, and 58th minutes, solidifying the Hunters' dominance throughout the match.
The Brisbane Tigers, however, mounted a spirited comeback in the second half. Keagan Russell-Smith managed to break through the Hunters’ defense to score the Tigers’ first try at the 48th minute, which he also converted. Tony Thompson crossed the line in the 71st minute, followed by Ryley Jacks, who scored back-to-back tries in the 74th and 78th minutes. Russell-Smith remained consistent, converting all four tries for the Tigers.
Despite the Tigers' late surge, the Hunters' first-half performance was too much to overcome. At halftime, the score was 28-0 in favor of the Hunters, and while the Tigers fought back, the full-time score reflected the Hunters' early dominance, ending at 46-24.
The victory not only secured the Hunters' position within the top eight but also set the stage for their next home game against the Western Clydesdales. With momentum on their side, the Hunters will be looking to continue their winning streak in front of their home crowd.
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The Brisbane Tigers, however, mounted a spirited comeback in the second half. Keagan Russell-Smith managed to break through the Hunters’ defense to score the Tigers’ first try at the 48th minute, which he also converted. Tony Thompson crossed the line in the 71st minute, followed by Ryley Jacks, who scored back-to-back tries in the 74th and 78th minutes. Russell-Smith remained consistent, converting all four tries for the Tigers.
Despite the Tigers' late surge, the Hunters' first-half performance was too much to overcome. At halftime, the score was 28-0 in favor of the Hunters, and while the Tigers fought back, the full-time score reflected the Hunters' early dominance, ending at 46-24.
The victory not only secured the Hunters' position within the top eight but also set the stage for their next home game against the Western Clydesdales. With momentum on their side, the Hunters will be looking to continue their winning streak in front of their home crowd.
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