THE search for wins to finish season 2026 on a positive note and build momentum for next year is key for the SP PNG Hunters heading into their Round 14 Hostplus Cup clash with Northern Pride on Sunday at the Santos National Football Stadium, Port Moresby.
Although the Hunters remain at the bottom of the ladder (15th) with six competition points, confidence inside the camp remains high after a spirited first-half display against the Burleigh Bears last weekend which saw coach Paul Aiton’s side slide to its 10th loss effectively extinguishing any hope of making the top eight.
The South Pacific Brewery-sponsored side pushed the Luke Burt-coached Bears all the way and went into half-time locked at 12-all before small moments and missed opportunities proved costly in the second half seeing them lose 22-12.
Despite another difficult result, Hunters chief executive officer Scott Barker believes there are plenty of positives to take from the team’s recent performance.
“The effort’s there, but we’re just not getting across the line, but absolutely still positive,” Barker said.
“Nothing’s changed from last week. The boys have trained great again. There’s a good feeling around the camp.
“So we have two sessions this week already, big days, big sessions, and then captain’s run tomorrow and then smaller day on Saturday with some preparation stuff ready for Sunday.”
According to Barker, the attitude inside camp remains positive and focused.
The Hunters have continued their preparations this week with strong training sessions and high energy among the playing group as they build towards Sunday’s clash.
Two intense training days have already been completed, with the team now preparing to finish the week through captain’s run and final preparations before match day.
Northern Pride, who enter the match sitting seventh on the ladder with 16 points and chasing an important win to strengthen their finals position.
