PNG Hunters lose duo

HUNTERS coach Michael Marum has confirmed that one player from the 36-men squad has left the pre-season training camp because of work commitments, and another is soon to follow.

Goroka Lahanis prop Gonzella Urakusie returned to Goroka last weekend, while Enga Mioks captain Rex Yallon is expected to leave for Wabag, Enga, this week.

Marum said Urakusie and Yalon were not the only players who had to decide between their jobs or education and playing for the Hunters. Hela Wigmen prop Benjamin Hetra, who is a lawyer by profession, could leave camp if he decides to put his law career ahead of the Hunters opportunity.

Yallon, who is a surveyor by profession, attained his Bachelor’s degree in surveying from the University of Technology in Lae, Morobe.

The 23-old Engan graduated earlier this year after completing the four-year course.

Yallon debuted in the Digicel Cup with Lae Tigers in 2012 while doing his third year in his discipline. He has been given a position in the Works Department branch in Enga.

“I just started work this year and really I can’t let it go,” Yalon said.

“I think I need to work at my profession and get some experience before I think about playing representative or high level football.”

Yallon said he was grateful to be considered good enough for an opportunity with Marum’s side but he had already committed himself to his position in the public service in Enga. 

“It’s always been my dream to wear a Hunters jumper and one day I will but my work commitment is there,” Yallon said.

“This doesn’t mean I’m forgoing my rugby league career.

“I will still play for the Mioks while working and if the situation allows later on, I will make myself available for selection in their train-on squad maybe in 2017.”

Marum said the players, especially those who had studied to get university degrees and other tertiary qualifications, had important decisions to make regarding committing totally to the Hunters or pursuing their careers.

Props Enoch Maki and Henry Wan have university degrees while winger Justin Olam is another Digicel Cup player, who has been juggling school and rugby league for the past two seasons. 

He said he understood their commitments to their families, their professions.

Marum said despite the losing two men he had no plans yet to bring any new players into the squad. The Natioinal