Townsville Blackhawks proved they are a force to be reckoned with, with a dominant 48-18 win against PNG Hunters in Round 19 of the Intrust Super Cup.
The Blackhawks secured the emphatic win with eight tries to the Hunters' three in front of a large and vocal crowd at Jack Manski Oval this afternoon.
Match: Blackhawks v Hunters
Round 19 -
home Team
Blackhawks
4th Position
away Team
Hunters
13th Position
Venue: Jack Manski Oval, Townsville
The Blackhawks win came on the back of a solid foundation set by Corey Jensen, Thomas Gilbert and Francis Molo, who was a late inclusion in the team.
Halves Shaun Nona and Jaelen Feeney orchestrated some polished backline movements resulting in eight tries for the home team, including a fantastic long range try by Zac Santo.
Nona topped off a great afternoon with a flawless goal kicking exhibition, nailing eight from eight, including several from the sideline.
“As I said earlier this week, the Hunters are a very physical team, and I was pleased that today we were able to match them,” Blackhawks coach Aaron Payne said.
“There is a really good feel amongst the players, and they are playing with real confidence.
“We now want to make the most of our opportunities and finish as high up the ladder as we can.”
The Blackhawks' Hastings Deering Colts team also had a convincing 42-6 win over the Western Mustangs.
Match: Blackhawks v Clydesdales
Round 19 -
home Team
Blackhawks
away Team
Clydesdales
Venue: Jack Manski Oval, Townsville
Coach Dave Elliott was delighted with the performance, especially after the Mustangs won by a field goal back in Round 9.
“There was a sense of redemption in this game, and the boys played really well,” Elliott said.
“It was good for the boys to get back out and play some footy after a 3-week break.”
The Blackhawks will play CQ Capras in Round 20.
Match: Capras v Blackhawks
Round 20 -
home Team
Capras
14th Position
away Team
Blackhawks
4th Position
Venue: Browne Park, Rockhampton
The Hunters will face Burleigh Bears.
Match: Hunters v Bears
Round 20 -
home Team
Hunters
13th Position
away Team
Bears
3rd Position
Venue: PNG Football Stadium, Port Moresby