SP PNG Hunters coach Stanley Tepend has named five debutants to take on Western Clydesdales, who make a return to Hostsplus Cup after 17 years, in their round one fixture on Sunday.
Debutants Morea Morea Jr, Siki Konden, Saki Peter, Tommy Moide and Joshua Mire will lineup against a Clydesdales pack who are ready to make an impact in their comeback season.
Sakias Komati and Jamie Mavoko are Tepend’s first choice halves pairing with Judah Rimbu coming off the bench as utility player.
Former Central Queensland Capras prop Epel Kapinias and Junior Rop will lead the charge with backing from second rowers Sherwin Tanabi, Julius Yakopa and lock Ila Alu.
The Hunters have momentum on their backs with their recent victory over the Kaiviti Silktails in Fiji over the weekend in the Melanesian Bowl challenge.
The Ila Alu-captained side will look to build on from that victory to register a first win for the season in the second-tier competition.
Team: Morea Morea, Siki Konden, Benji Kot, Brandon Nima, Solo Wane, Sakias Komati, Jamie Mavoko, Junior Rop, Wesser Tenza, Epel Kapinias, Sherwin Tanabi, Julius Yakopa, Ila Alu (captain). Interchange: Judah Rimbu, Tom Moide, Henry Noki, Joshua Mire, Matthew Jesse (18th man).
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