SPOTLIGHT ON: Hull FC v St Helens

 BY @MMA_Taproom

With a stinging loss still in their rear view mirror, Hull welcomed St Helens once again in a rematch of their recent challenge cup clash. Hull started with a fire burning, determined to eradicate a similar score line. With 2 early tries and a stellar performance by the human wrecking ball Tuimavave, Hull were dampening St Helens chances of back to back matches wins in under 7 days.

A moment of brilliance from Trueman and an excellent conversion from Clifford saw a 16-0 score line with Saints on the ropes and desperate for a breakthrough within 25 minutes. St Helens lacked their usual prowess making simple mistakes in the closing stages of the first half, possibly feeling the aftermath of recent victories. Approaching half time, Hull extended their lead by a strong push from Satae just 5 metres out, almost unstoppable at this distance. Hull FC are looking in sync and taking full advantage of an uncharacteristically lacklustre St Helens. Commentators and fans alike are questioning why Roby has yet to see any game time this evening.

In the closing seconds of the first half, it appeared Hull were going to extend their lead even further but upon closer video referee inspection, a dropped ball saved St Helens from a larger points deficit. Hull close the first half 22-0. A great 40 minutes from Hull and a surprising performance from a usually very strong St Helens team who are definitely not out of the game yet.

Jake Clifford’s mighty boot signalled the start of the second half as St Helens begin their comeback attempt with James Roby now on the field. As expected, the Saints were desperate to not have a repeat 40 minutes and were over the try line within the first few minutes of the second half with a solid try from James Bell. The comeback was halted almost immediately with a Cam Scott try that stopped Saints on their tracks. A back and forth start with both teams determined to assert their dominance on the game. 28-6 to Hull FC with plenty of time on the clock.

Hull had an opportunity to kick for 2 after a penalty but decided to take the tap and push for another try, a glimpse into the mentality of this Hull team. A period of back and forth commenced with both teams scrambling for supremacy causing a momentary stalemate. The sun set on the MKM stadium, along with the Saints chances of reprieve and redemption.

Davy Litten was denied a try once again in the dying minutes of the game to extend the lead even further. Litten has had a good game and unfortunate not to have 2 tries. With 4 minutes left on the clock, Hull put their stamp on their game by a great try from Darnell Macintosh.  34-6 to Hull FC, hard to believe that Hull have lost their previous 16 meetings with Saints.

St Helens have not shown their usual dominance but take nothing away from Hull FC. A team defeated not a week before by the Saints now with an emphatic victory. A great performance with a fitting score line. Final score 34-6.