Wynnum Manly overcome poor start to down Hunters

Hunters winger Bland Abavu was the first to score when he crossed in the early moments of the game after latching on to a grubber kick to score. Ase Boas was successful with the conversion and the home side had a 6-0 lead - however, it didn't last long.

The Seagulls wasted no time as a penalty gave them possession and they scored through centre Junior Pauga. Patrick Templemen converted to level the scores and he was involved again as Pauga scored second after the kick off, with Templeman setting him on his way after he made a break. His successful conversion gave the visitors a 12-6 lead with 13 minutes gone.

Both sides were guilty of incomplete sets and poor handling of the ball, but Wynnum Manly were able to capitalise on Hunters mistakes.

Seagulls winger Ed Burns added to his season try-scoring tally (his 10th for 2019, which sees him a share the Leading Try Scorers honours with Burleigh Bears back Troy Leo) when he crossed in the 25th minute after a set play. 

While Templeman missed that goal - the visitors had a comfortable lead and put them on their way to breaking their six-game losing streak against the Hunters.

They added one more try before the break - the last try of the game it turned out - when forward Kalolo Saitaua made his way over the line and the Seagulls were in the lead 22-6 at halftime.

The second half proved a much tighter affair, but the Gulls were able to push further ahead with three penalties goals, all from Templeman to finish the match with a 28-6 win.

The Hunters tried to hit back, with the resistance led by forwards Junior Rop; while Templeman was a standout for the Gulls. 

Next weekend, the Hunters will be back at home on Sunday and will host a Souths Logan Magpies side who will be equally desperate to fire up their season with another win.

The Wynnum Manly Seagulls will face the Norths Devils in the Sunday televised game which will kick off on Sunday at 1.10pm.