Both teams go into one of the fiercest derbies in English rugby off the back of disappointing defeats. Hull FC were trounced 72-10 at Wakefield, while the Robins fell to defeat at home to Warrington Wolves.
SQUAD NEWS
Hull FC
The FC camp received a much-needed boost this week after Danny Washbrook, Josh Bowden and Scott Taylor were all handed new contracts earlier this week.
The Black and Whites welcome back centre Josh Griffin (injury) and forward Sika Manu (suspension) for Friday’s local derby.
But Dean Hadley (ankle) is ruled out and Joe Westerman will miss the remainder of the season with a knee problem.
Hull FC 19-man squad: Shaul, Faraimo, Tuimavave, Griffin, Talanoa, Sneyd, Taylor, Houghton, Minichiello, Abdul, Washbrook, Fash, Manu, Litten, Paea, Lane, Downs, Matongo, Harris.
Hull KR
KR have announced an 18-man squad as they are awaiting clearance before they can add new signing Todd Carney, who would make his debut.
They will, however, be without trio Danny McGuire, Mose Masoe and James Greenwood who are all suspended.
Hull KR 19-man squad: Quinlan, Scruton, Blair, Kavanagh, Jewitt, Donaldson, Clarkson, Lee, Mulhern, Salter, Atkin, Wardill, Oakes, Dagger, Walne, Cator, Tickle, Wallis.
HEAD TO HEAD
Hull FC won both derbies so far this season, including an entralling encounter at Magic Weekend in the spring. In fact, they have won all competitive derby meetings in the last four years.
Tonight’s game, however, is a free shot for KR now that they can’t reach the top eight. And if history is anything to go by, they win the derby when they have nothing to lose.
KEY BATTLE – Marc Sneyd vs Adam Quinlan
When he’s fit, Sneyd can win matches all by himself. The Oldham-born scrum half’s kicking ability, as well as his eye for the try line, makes him irreplaceable for FC.
And Quinlan is equally vital for the Red and Whites. The full back’s hearty desire and endless stamina mean that KR will always have a fighting chance of victory; if he can keep up his record of scoring in every other match for the club.
THE IMPORTANT DETAILS
Date: Friday 27th July
Venue: KCOM Stadium
Kick-off: 7:45pm
Referee: Gareth Hewer
https://nothingbutleague.com/2018/07/26/super-league-predictions-round-23/
