The SP PNG Hunters have received a timely boost ahead of their Round 20 Hostplus Cup clash against the Redcliffe Dolphins, with six players returning from injury as the side looks to finish the season strongly.
Assistant coach Enock Maki said the Hunters' preparation had remained consistent despite a difficult campaign that has seen the club sitting at the bottom of the competition ladder.
"Preparation is going good. We know the season hasn't been good for us, but it doesn't change anything for us," Maki said.
"Our preparation is the same, our mentality is the same and we're looking forward to the game this weekend."
The Hunters will welcome backs six players for Saturday's home fixture at the Santos.
The Hunters will welcome back six players for Saturday's home fixture at 3:30 pm at the Santos National Football Stadium, including Clent Lama, Miles Naipao, Joel Gena, Sylvester Namo, Seal Kalo and Joshua Mire, all returning after injury layoffs.
Maki said the two-week competition break came at the right time, allowing injured players to complete their rehabilitation and return to full fitness.
"For the last two weeks we've been off, it's helped us a lot. We've had a lot of injuries, so the boys had time to do their rehab and prepare themselves well to get back on the field," he said.
"Mentally, nothing changes for us. We just have to work hard. That's the message we've been telling the boys."
During the break, several senior players were released to play for their respective Digicel ExxonMobil Cup clubs to maintain match fitness, while younger squad members also returned to domestic competition.
"We selected players that needed to maintain their fitness, so they went back to their clubs for the finals," Maki explained.
"It was important for them to stay match-ready for this game."
Although the Hunters' finals hopes are not entirely over, Maki said the team remained determined to finish the season on a positive note and avoid claiming the wooden spoon for the first time in the club's Hostplus Cup season.
"Our goal is to work hard and hopefully get some positive results from the remaining four games," he said.
"We've spoken as a team that we don't want to finish with the wooden spoon. The boys know that and they'll keep working hard."
The assistant coach also thanked the Hunters' loyal supporters, whose backing has remained unwavering throughout a challenging season.
"Our fans have been very good," Maki said.
"Even though we haven't had a good season, they continue to support us every time we play at home. You can feel their support during the games, and we hope to see them again this weekend."
The SP PNG Hunters host the Redcliffe Dolphins this weekend at Santos National Football Stadium in Port Moresby as they look to secure a much-needed victory in Round 20 of the Hostplus Cup.
