The PNG Hunters have been dealt a significant blow ahead of their Hostplus Cup preliminary final against the Norths Devils, with key five-eighth Joshua Lau ruled out of Sunday’s match. Lau, a dynamic 22-year-old, sustained a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) during the Hunters' 24-10 win over the Sunshine Coast Falcons last weekend, ending his season.
Lau had been instrumental in the Hunters' second-half resurgence this season, with strong performances across 20 games. He contributed eight tries, 11 try-assists, and as many line breaks. The Porgera native was injured in the 57th minute of the match and was later taken to Pacific International Hospital in Port Moresby, where scans confirmed the ACL tear. The expected recovery period for Lau is between seven to nine months, ruling him out until mid-season next year.
Lau had been instrumental in the Hunters' second-half resurgence this season, with strong performances across 20 games. He contributed eight tries, 11 try-assists, and as many line breaks. The Porgera native was injured in the 57th minute of the match and was later taken to Pacific International Hospital in Port Moresby, where scans confirmed the ACL tear. The expected recovery period for Lau is between seven to nine months, ruling him out until mid-season next year.
Adding to the Hunters' woes, prop Valentine Richard will also miss the game due to concussion protocols. Richard was forced off the field in the 26th minute against the Falcons following a head knock, just after returning from a previous head injury assessment (HIA) from the final round match against the Western Clydesdales.
Coach Paul Aiton faces a tough challenge as his side prepares for one of the club’s most important matches in years. Lau’s absence leaves a void in the team, particularly in their attacking structure. Utility Finley Glare is expected to replace Lau at five-eighth, having previously filled the role in round 9 against the Northern Pride, where he delivered a standout performance. Hooker Judah Rimbu, who filled in when Lau was injured last week, is another option, though Aiton may prefer to keep Rimbu at dummy-half given his strong form this season.
Richard’s likely replacement is Anthony Worot, who filled in for the forward during the elimination final two weeks ago. Worot, an East New Briton, has proven his capability and will look to bolster the Hunters' forward pack in Richard's absence.
The Hunters are preparing for their second clash with the Devils at Bishop Park in Brisbane this year. In their last encounter, the Hunters secured a thrilling 20-18 victory in round 17, with Jamie Mavoko sealing the win with a dramatic after-the-siren conversion. Sunday’s match will determine whether the Hunters will advance to their second-ever grand final.
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Coach Paul Aiton faces a tough challenge as his side prepares for one of the club’s most important matches in years. Lau’s absence leaves a void in the team, particularly in their attacking structure. Utility Finley Glare is expected to replace Lau at five-eighth, having previously filled the role in round 9 against the Northern Pride, where he delivered a standout performance. Hooker Judah Rimbu, who filled in when Lau was injured last week, is another option, though Aiton may prefer to keep Rimbu at dummy-half given his strong form this season.
Richard’s likely replacement is Anthony Worot, who filled in for the forward during the elimination final two weeks ago. Worot, an East New Briton, has proven his capability and will look to bolster the Hunters' forward pack in Richard's absence.
The Hunters are preparing for their second clash with the Devils at Bishop Park in Brisbane this year. In their last encounter, the Hunters secured a thrilling 20-18 victory in round 17, with Jamie Mavoko sealing the win with a dramatic after-the-siren conversion. Sunday’s match will determine whether the Hunters will advance to their second-ever grand final.
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