SP PNG Hunters Dominate Brisbane Tigers in Impressive Hostplus Cup Victory

SP PNG Hunters Dominate Brisbane Tigers in Impressive Hostplus Cup Victory

The SP PNG Hunters put on a masterclass performance in Round 4 of the Hostplus Cup, crushing the Brisbane Tigers 40-6 at the Santos National Football Stadium in Port Moresby on Sunday, March 30, 2025. In a display of sheer dominance, the home side overwhelmed their opponents with a flurry of eight tries, while keeping the Tigers to just one.

From the opening whistle, the Hunters set the tone with relentless attacking play. Brandon Nima opened the scoring in the 9th minute, quickly followed by Zebedy Kip two minutes later. The onslaught continued as Solo Wane crossed the line in the 22nd minute, and Alex Max added another try before halftime in the 35th minute. Jamie Mavoko successfully converted two of the four first-half tries, giving the Hunters a commanding 20-0 lead at the break.

The Brisbane Tigers showed glimpses of fight early in the second half when Ryley Jacks scored in the 46th minute, with Walter Lauenstein adding the extras shortly after. However, this brief moment of resistance was swiftly quashed as the Hunters reasserted their dominance.

Alex Max notched his second try in the 62nd minute, paving the way for Sanny Wabo to score twice in quick succession in the 69th and 72nd minutes. Brandon Nima sealed the victory with his second try late in the 78th minute, while Jamie Mavoko’s accurate boot contributed four conversions throughout the match to further extend the lead.

Defensively, the Hunters were unyielding. Their disciplined structure and aggressive tackling stifled the Tigers’ attack, particularly in the first half where they were held scoreless. This resilience ensured the visitors had little room to maneuver or build momentum.

The emphatic win underscores the Hunters’ status as serious contenders in the competition this season. With a potent mix of attacking flair and defensive grit, they have laid down a marker for the rest of the league.

As the Hunters turn their attention to their next fixture, the Brisbane Tigers will need to regroup following a challenging afternoon in Port Moresby. For now, the Hunters can celebrate a statement victory that highlights their championship aspirations.

Also read

• PNG Police Minister Condemns East Sepik Governor’s Misleading Statements on Counter-Terrorism Act
  

• PNG PM Marape Seeks New Zealand Expertise for PNG’s SOEs

• Commander Turi and MP Kaupa Address Route Seven Bus Drivers’ Concerns in Port Moresby
• Former PNG Attorney-General: Marape Pressured Finance to Pay Paraka Lawyers