The Papua New Guinea Hunters rugby league team have a well-earned bye this weekend after a top two finish in the Queensland Cup regular season.
But, despite a 17-match unbeaten streak to end the season, the team is unlikely to play in front of their home supporters during their first ever playoffs appearance.
The PNG Hunters are among the form teams in the Queensland Cup. Photo: SP PNG Hunters
The Hunters will travel to top-qualifiers Townsville next weekend for the major semi final, with the winner of that game advancing directly to the grand final at Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane.
The PNG team beat the Blackhawks both home and away during the regular season and Hunters CEO Shane Morris admits it's unfortunate they may not get to reward their local fans with a home playoffs appearance.
"They're the major factor behind us winning our games up here is the support and the passion they bring to the game. It is a shame that we may not have another game up here - it looks like we probably won't - but with that I know we've got a great supporter base wherever we go in Australia, in Townsville or in Brisbane. We want to make sure we do ourselves proud and also do our fans and our sponsors proud as well".
The playoffs kick off this weekend with third placed Ipswich hosting defending champions the Northern Pride and fourth placed Wynnum-Manly welcoming Easts Tigers.
The winning teams will face the loser of the PNG v Townsville clash for a spot in the grand final.
Papua New Guinea Rugby League and PNG Hunters CEO Shane Morris. Photo: RNZI / Vinnie Wylie
Shane Morris says if the Hunters host that game it will be in Port Moresby.
