SP PNG Hunters CEO Scott Barker says the club remains confident of pushing for a top eight finish despite a challenging start to the season that has been compounded by injuries, suspensions and a significant loss of experience from last year's squad.
Speaking ahead of the Hunters' clash against the Burleigh Bears, Barker acknowledged the team's struggles but said the focus remains on developing the next generation of Papua New Guinea rugby league talent.
"It has been a tough season so far, but I'd like to focus on the positives," Barker said.
The Hunters lost 15 players from a squad of 32 at the end of last season, including several experienced campaigners who collectively accounted for more than 500 Queensland Cup appearances.
According to Barker, the departures have created opportunities for emerging players to step into senior football.
"We had 10 players move on to overseas opportunities last year. While that's a loss for us in the short term, it opens the door for the next generation of PNG rugby league players to come in and show what they can do."
Among those impressing this season is debutant McWin Worinu, who Barker said performed strongly in his first Queensland Cup appearance last weekend. He also praised the return of Limbi Henry, who has worked his way back into the side after injury setbacks.
The Hunters' campaign has been further disrupted by an injury toll that currently stands at 11 players, while suspensions and concussion protocols have forced continual changes to the playing roster.
Barker revealed coach Paul Aiton has not been able to field the same team twice this season.
"We've debuted with eight players already this year. That's almost as many as we debuted in the whole of last season. When you're constantly bringing young players into the team, consistency becomes difficult."
Despite the setbacks, Barker believes the Hunters have remained competitive in most matches and are capable of climbing the ladder.
"Outside of a couple of poor halves of football, we've been in most games. If we can maintain our concentration and compete for the full 80 minutes, we can certainly pick up those close wins and push for a top eight spot."
Barker also highlighted the importance of experience at Queensland Cup level, noting it can take players dozens of games before they feel fully comfortable competing week in and week out.
"This is part of the journey. We had a big reset at the end of last season and now we're building again. I'm comfortable with our staff, our systems, and the direction we're heading. If we keep working hard, I'm confident the results will come."
