SP PNG Hunters’ five-eighth and skipper, Israel Eliab’s on-field displays were dynamic enough, to have him crowned man of the match against the Falcons yesterday.
Hunters win have pushed them from the sixth placing to fourth.
The Sunshine Coast Stockland Park sprang to life with fans, supporters, and even traditional dancers, giving a home-side taste to the Hunters.
The Hunters, with a winning tag from last weekend’s match, meant business as they took the field.
The home team was banking on the young players scouted from the Melbourne’s under 20 side.
The Hunters, with Willie Minoga off the bench, took the Falcons on in a clinical show.
Skipper Israel Eliab was quick to respond to Falcon’s five-eighth Brett Doherty’s kicks, intended for the in-goal area. Eliab raced 95 metres downfield, to hand the Hunters a 4-nil lead against the run of play.
Half back Roger Laka, continued the Hunters good form, adding a converted tries, and moved on to gain 2 points from the penalty.
The Home boys eventually awarded to lively Falcon’s Doherty, the 21 year old attempted to add the extras, but shanked his effort and kept the score at 14 – 4, leading to half- time.
The razzle-dazzle football after the break had both sides coming close to crossing the strip.
Falcons pulled up defence and denied Hunters access at the scoring vicinity, however, the Hunters scoring machine managed to go past the resilient Falcons, ending the round beyond doubt.
Skipper Israel Eliab was crowned as man of the match.
