The PNG Hunters have made history. It was a first of its kind ANZAC round, this event was held in Port Moresby at the Santos National Football Stadium.

The home team won against Burleigh Bears; they reclaimed the prestigious Kokoda Cup for the first time since 2015. It was a stirring victory over the Burleigh Bears.

In a hard-fought contest, the Hunters demonstrated outstanding determination and resilience. They defended one of the Hostplus Cup’s strongest sides. They kept them scoreless in the first half.

The match was played with intensity and pride, fitting for a trophy that honors the courage and sacrifice of the Kokoda Track campaign.

 Hunters Head Coach Paul Aiton praised the efforts of his side and acknowledged the quality of the opposition.

“The Bears are a strong side — I have seen them play with 12 men and no one on the bench and still win, so they are not easy to beat but full credit to the boys for the win, Aiton said.

Meanwhile Captain Ila Alu also shared the emotional significance of the victory. “It was a personal victory for me.”

“Since being with the club, we have been on the losing end of the Kokoda Cup. Winning this one was a great personal achievement.”

The Kokoda Cup, contested annually, is a tribute to the bravery, endurance, and mates hip displayed during the Kokoda campaign in World War II.

Hunters’ victory was celebrated by a passionate home crowd at Santos National Football Stadium, standing united in honor of this important legacy.

They will now look to build on this momentum as they continue their 2025 Hostplus Cup campaign next week as they face the Wynnum Seagulls at Santos NFS this Sunday at home.