PAPUA New Guinea ‘SP’ Hunters top pick Sanny Wabo has been ruled out for Sunday’s match against the Sunshine Coast Falcons following a neck injury.

This follows after Wabo sustained a neck injury during the 16-50 loss against Redcliff Dolphins at the Santos National Football Stadium last weekend.

Head Coach Paul Aiton confirmed that in his replacement Douglas David has been called up to take on the number 1 jersey as full back after weeks of outstanding performance in the Digicel-Exxon Mobil Cup.

“It’s really unfortunate and a big loss for us, he (Wabo) has a couple of scans to go through after the crusher tackle on his neck in last weekend’s match.

“But we’re going to give him all the best care he needs to ensure he recovers. In saying that, we are really excited to see young Douglas take on the full back position on debut.”

David who was named in the 30-man squad has been consistent with his performance in the inter-city competition through his club Lae Snax Tigers now earning a call up on debut.

He will be teaming up with the backs (Branden Nima, Alex Max, Elijah Roltinga and Solo Wane).

Meanwhile sensational rookie prop Manuel Anis has earned his spot in the first 13 for this weekend’s clash alongside Murray Connors and Roberth Mathias have been really dominant in the forwards as well as captain Ila Alu.

Aiton said this weekend’s match is all about focus to put more effort in their third home game at the National Football Stadium as the Hunters are currently sitting on the 8^th spot of the Queensland ‘Host Plus Cup ladder.

He also outlined that this weekend’s match is a must win for them but in order to do so, their primary focus will be on the defensive plays, efficient set completions rather than focusing on the scoreboard.

At this moment there is no replacements except for the full back positions, most of the players reshuffled from last weekend’s match.

A new spine combination has been formed with young Gairo Voro already making a huge impact in the five-eight jersey, Jamie Mavoko in Half-Back and now Finley Glare moved in the Hooker’s position.

The Hunters and Falcons fixture will kick off straight after the PNG Womens XIIIs clash against the Australian Defence Force (ADF) XIIIs team at the National Football Stadium.