SP PNG Hunters Coach Paul Aiton Eyes Victory Against Devils as Perfect Independence Celebration
Port Moresby – SP PNG Hunters head coach Paul Aiton is targeting a crucial win over the Norths Devils this Sunday, not only to secure a spot in the Hostplus Cup grand final but also to mark Papua New Guinea’s 49th Independence in style. Aiton acknowledged the significance of the match, praising his team’s standout season, which has seen them return to the finals for the first time since their 2017 premiership triumph.
In his first year as head coach, the 39-year-old Aiton emphasized that the team remains grounded ahead of this pivotal clash. While reaching the finals is a major accomplishment, the Hunters are focused on the challenge at hand and are wary of underestimating their opponents. The team will face the Devils at their home ground, Bishop Park.
“Winning on Sunday would be the perfect way to celebrate Independence and secure our place in the grand final,” Aiton said. “We’ve discussed it, and if we win, we’ll head home on Monday, celebrate with our families, and then begin preparations for the grand final. But first, we have to win, and the confidence among the boys is high.”
Aiton, a former Kumul, expressed his pride in coaching such a talented squad, noting that the experience has helped him grow both as a coach and as an individual. He also mentioned his willingness to assist the PNG Kumuls under new head coach Jason Demetriou in next month’s Pacific Bowl challenge if called upon. Aiton was part of the Kumuls’ coaching staff during the 2022 World Cup in England and last year’s Pacific Championship in Port Moresby.
Despite injuries to key players, Aiton remains hopeful. Five-eighth Joshua Lau and prop Valentine Richard have been sidelined, with Finley Glare stepping in for Lau and Anthony Worot replacing Richard. Aiton praised Glare’s earlier performances in the halves, expressing confidence in his ability to fill the role seamlessly.
“Finley has played in the halves before and did an excellent job, so I’m confident there won’t be any issues,” Aiton remarked.
While injuries have been a challenge this season, Aiton commended the team’s resilience and is confident they will rise to the occasion in Sunday’s preliminary final. He reminded his players of their narrow 20-18 victory over the Devils in Brisbane back in July, believing that with the same determination, they can achieve a similar result.
Victory on Sunday would not only propel the Hunters into the grand final but would also be a fitting way to celebrate the nation’s Independence with their passionate fans.
