The SP PNG Hunters were unable to overcome a fast-starting Tweed Seagulls outfit, falling 34-18 in their QRL Hostplus Cup R12 clash at the Preston Building Sports Complex in Piggabeen, Australia.
The Seagulls capitalised on early momentum and maintained control for large periods of the match, scoring six tries to three to secure a strong home victory, while the Hunters were left to rue defensive lapses and missed opportunities in key moments.
The home side struck early through Jett Liu in the third minute, with Lindon McGrady adding the conversion to give the Seagulls a 6-0 lead.
The Hunters responded through centre Bruce Bawase, who finished off a strong attacking movement in the ninth minute. Halfback Trevor Solu added the conversion to level the scores at 6-6.
However, the Seagulls quickly reasserted dominance, with tries to Adam Christensen and Sunny Kama helping them regain control. McGrady’s accuracy off the tee and a penalty goal further extended the margin, sending the Seagulls into halftime with a commanding 20-6 advantage.
Any hopes of a Hunters comeback were dealt an early blow after the break when the Seagulls crossed twice in quick succession through Kyle Pickering and Christensen’s second try of the afternoon, pushing the score to 30-6.
To their credit, the SP PNG Hunters continued to fight, with Bruce Bawase crossing for his second try in the 54th minute. Solu’s conversion reduced the deficit and briefly lifted visiting hopes.
But the Seagulls sealed the result in the 67th minute when Jack Smith crossed to restore a comfortable buffer and shut down any remaining chance of a comeback.
The Hunters finished strongly when Limbi Henry scored in the dying stages, with Solu maintaining his perfect kicking record with a third successful conversion.
Bawase was a standout for the SP PNG Hunters, scoring two tries and consistently threatening the defensive line with strong carries. Solu also impressed, finishing 3-from-3 with the boot.
For the Seagulls, Christensen scored a double, while Liu, Kama, Pickering and Smith all crossed in a polished attacking display. McGrady contributed 10 points and played a key role in controlling field position throughout the match.
The result sees the SP PNG Hunters return home looking to regroup as the Hostplus Cup season continues.
Match Summary
Tweed Seagulls 34
- Tries: Jett Liu, Adam Christensen (2), Sunny Kama, Kyle Pickering, Jack Smith
- Goals: Lindon McGrady 4/6
- Penalty Goals: Lindon McGrady 1/1
SP PNG Hunters 18
- Tries: Bruce Bawase (2), Limbi Henry
- Goals: Trevor Solu 3/3
- Halftime: Tweed Seagulls 20-6 SP PNG Hunters
- Venue: Preston Building Sports Complex, Piggabeen
