Jack Harbidge reviews the Round One clash between Hull FC and Huddersfield Giants at Emerald Headingley Stadium….. Here’s how the game went.
SCOREBOARD
Hull FC 22
Tries: Jake Connor (17), Josh Griffin (22), Josh Reynolds (61)
Goals: Marc Sneyd (19, 24, 45, 62, 67)
Huddersfield Giants 10
Tries: Ricky Leutele (69), James Gavet (80)
Goals: Oliver Russell (80)
MATCH REPORT
Embed from Getty Images1st Half
Despite Hull FC having the better possession in the opening stages, Huddersfield started well, defending their line to great effect and looking the more likely to score in attack despite running into a severe headwind. Unfortunately for new head coach Ian Watson, the Giants couldn’t convert their opportunities and it was Hull FC who took advantage of a tiring James Gavet near the line, through a Jake Connor show and go to cross at the 17 minute mark.
The ‘home’ side continued to press and in complete control, Josh Griffin crossing just four minutes later off the back of great shape down the Hull left edge. Marc Sneyd converted and Hull FC found themselves 12-0 going into half-time and, while Huddersfield mounted somewhat of a fight back, they couldn’t convert their opportunities against a steadfast FC defence.
HALF-TIME: Hull FC 12 Huddersfield Giants 0
Embed from Getty Images2nd Half
Hull FC started the second half the better of the two sides and challenged the Huddersfield line early on. Sneyd combined nicely with new signing Josh Reynolds, who looked to have been through onto a kick from Sneyd, only to be taken out by Kenny Edwards, who was duly punished with a yellow card from Robert Hicks.
Sneyd converted the ensuing penalty despite needing Griffin to hold the ball upright in the extreme wind, putting Hull more than two converted tries ahead. Hull FC continued to press with Sneyd kicking for Reynolds again, the Australian scoring on debut. Sneyd converted to put his side 20-0 up, before converting a penalty soon after to extend the margin by 22.
Huddersfield weren’t without their own periods though, and began to get back on the scoreboard in the last quarter of the game. Ricky Leutele crossed with just ten minutes to play to cut the deficit, and while Huddersfield couldn’t convert, they continued to press for more points off the kick off. The Hull FC defence held out well but did indeed break once more just before full time, with James Gavet going over for the Giants.
FULL-TIME: Hull FC 22 Huddersfield Giants 10
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