A win, Moy and Kirby shine, criticised players hit back, and John Kear – some Hull FC talking points.
(Image: Dave Lofthouse, Hull FC)
Hull FC got a much-needed win against Huddersfield Giants on Saturday afternoon, defeating the West Yorkshire side 36-12 at the MKM Stadium. Here Hull Live looks at some talking points.
A win is a win
Huddersfield are the worst team in the competition right now, and the standard of opposition was far from great, but as the old cliché goes, you can only beat what’s put in front of you, and Hull did that. They got the win, a much-needed win for players, staff, and supporters alike, and they fully deserved it.
It’s something to smile and be happy about after a tough few weeks, and there were a few things to like about it too. Hull were gritty; they built into the game, stuck at it, and defended tough, producing three try-saving tackles at least, and after fatiguing Huddersfield and playing the long game, they iced their attack and ran away with the contest.
They deserve credit for that. There were some eye-catching tries, and it was nice to see Hull open up and play some fluent and direct rugby league, with tries coming from deep, off-shape, and off some off-the-cuff play. Also, it shouldn’t be lost that Hull had 15 players out for the clash. It’s hard to win any game with those numbers, but Hull got over the line comfortably. And regardless of the standard of opposition, that’s something that should never be taken lightly in Super League.
Youth shines on Hull and Proud week
You can never fault Hull FC’s desire to hand out opportunity to young, up-and-coming talent. And the prime case in point here is Logan Moy. After Will Pryce’s ACL injury, Hull could have easily brought an overseas player in but instead settled on their young Hull-born talent flying the flag for the rest of the year. And he’s let nobody down.
Under the high ball, Moy has been solid as a rock. Returning the ball, he’s been energetic and a threat. His overall running game has been good and there’s been plenty to like about his performances. He’s got things to work on, as does any young player, but the pride, the tenacity, and the energy he shows playing for Hull are second to none. He was outstanding against Huddersfield. And he’s still only 20. Let’s not forget that. He’s got plenty of time to develop further and get even better. And that’s an exciting thought.
Elsewhere, Will Kirby played his best game at Super League level. He did the full 80, impressing at loose forward before stints in the back row spots. He was tenacious and gritty. He’s also dogged, aggressive in the right way, and can hold his own. There was also some quality to his performance with some nice touches with the ball. It was also fitting on Hull and Proud week to see Lloyd Kemp impress again in the centre and Will Hutchinson have some moments. Harvey Barron also impressed.
Of course, youth is a big thing for Hull right now. They want to blood high-quality young talent and get them integrated into their first team for years to come. It’s easier said than done, especially given the depleted nature of the squad at present, but these players, local lads and boyhood fans, all want nothing more than to play for Hull FC, and it shows in their grit, their effort, their spirit, and their togetherness.
Hull have put loads of resources and time into youth development and have a great leader in Richard Tate and coach in Francis Cummins, and while the reality is that not every player will make it, this club has shown that opportunities will continue to be handed out. It’s down to the players to take them and the club to provide the best environment for them. But as history shows, blood them, and back them, and you get your rewards.
Criticised players step up
Amir Bourouh had one of his best games for Hull, producing a fine break for Logan Moy to score FC’s first try and then scooting over himself in the second half. It was good to see him have the confidence to run the ball – with Andy Last encouraging his hookers to get out and attack. The only sour point was a tackle on Mathieu Cozza. However, Last has suggested the first point of contact was on the buttocks – and that could help him should the RFL’s Match Review Panel take a look.
Jake Arthur also had some moments, both with the ball and also his kick chase, and he was heavily involved, and he linked with Aidan Sezer to effect, with the duo working well with Ethan O’Neill. On his return, Jed Cartwright also got through unscathed and looked to put himself about. Hopefully he can stay fit now and get a run of games together. Max Wood was also good on debut – and showed he can bring some steel to the side over the next month.
John Kear tributes
Pre-match, Hull FC nailed their tributes to former coach and 2005 Challenge Cup winner John Kear. The video on screen was emotional and the minute of silence impeccable. The supporters also showed their appreciation, and for a good ten minutes at the end of the game and long after the final whistle, John Kear’s name could be heard.
“I thought the last 10 minutes, the song regarding John Kear, was outstanding,” head coach Andy Last said. “That really, really pleased me. I was up there and laughing away. He’s got no hair, but we don’t care. Super Johnny Kear. I thought it was brilliant. And it kept going for about 10-15 minutes in the end. I think that’s just a tribute to the type of guy that John was and how much he meant to this club.”
What’s next?
Hull now face Wakefield Trinity at the MKM Stadium on Friday night – a team that will be looking for a response after a heavy defeat to Wigan Warriors. It’s going to be different level of challenge for Last and his side, but it’s one they will attack head on.
Regardless of results this year, you can never question Hull’s effort, grit, resilience and spirit. They will need those qualities to come to the fore again on Friday, and if they get them, then their resilience has shown they can at least be in the fight and the contest. And then in this crazy game of ours, who knows what can happen. Onwards and upwards.