The Papua New Guinea Hunters are now tied for the lead in the Queensland Cup rugby league competing after beating the Townsville Blackhawks 28-26 in Kokopo.

Stargroth Amean, Noel Zeming, Adex Wera, Israel Eliab and Ase Boas all scored as the Hunters extended their unbeaten run to 12 matches.

It's the second time the Hunters have beaten the competition newcomers Townsville, ending the visitors seven-match unbeaten run.

Both teams have 33 points after 20 rounds but the Blackhawks remain in first place on points differential.