The SP PNG Hunters showed plenty of determination but were ultimately outclassed by a clinical Northern Pride outfit, going down 32-16 in their Hostplus Cup clash at the Santos National Football Stadium in Port Moresby on Sunday 21st, 2026.
Playing in front of their home ground supporters, the Hunters made the ideal start when exciting outside back Sanny Wabo crossed for the opening try in the 10th minute to give the hosts an early 4-0 lead.
The Hunters looked confident early, but the visitors gradually wrestled control of the contest, scoring four unanswered tries to build a commanding lead. Northern Pride's Daniel Woodhouse, Tyler Moriarty and Fanafou Seve all crossed in a dominant first-half period as the Queensland side surged ahead.
Despite the pressure, the Hunters refused to go away. Graham Rex gave the home crowd something to cheer about when he crashed over shortly before halftime, narrowing the deficit to 16-8 at the break.
The second half proved challenging for the Hunters as Northern Pride capitalised on key moments to extend their advantage. Moriarty grabbed his second try shortly after the restart before Hunters winger Wabo was sent to the sin bin, forcing the home side to defend with 12 men.
Northern Pride took full advantage, with Ronald Philitoga scoring two second half tries to stretch the visitors' lead to 32-8 with just under 20 minutes remaining.
To their credit, the Hunters continued to fight until the final whistle. Centre Douglas David emerged as a bright spot for the home side, producing a strong finish with two late tries in the 65th and 69th minutes. His efforts helped reduce the final margin and highlighted the resilience that has become a trademark of the Hunters.
While the result did not go their way, the Hunters showed flashes of their attacking potential, finishing with four tries against one of the competition's in-form sides. Missed conversion opportunities proved costly, with the home team unable to add any points from their four tries.
Head coach and players will take positives from the never-say-die attitude displayed in the closing stages, particularly the performances of David and Rex, as the Hunters continue their push through the Hostplus Cup season.
The defeat leaves the SP PNG Hunters anchored at the bottom of the Hostplus Cup ladder on the15th place, adding further pressure as they look to revive their campaign in the remaining rounds of the season.
Despite showing resilience with a late fightback against Northern Pride, the Hunters will need to convert their performances into victories to climb out of last position.
