Hull go into their last game of the season against Kendal hoping to round off proceedings in style. Hull have just missed out on a play off place and were edged out of the Yorkshire Cup at the semi final stage last week at Harrogate. Coach Gary Pearce will be looking to his young side to bounce back from last Saturday’s loss and win in a convincing manner.
Their opponents, Kendal , must rank as the enigma of this league. Recent results have seen them defeat Sandal who lie in fourth place and even more dramatically they have registered a victory over play off place holders Rossendale. They have lost to Ilkley and Billingham by just a few points but were well beaten by relegation strugglers Doncaster Phoenix. That variable form neds to be seen in context and will have the alarm bells ringing for Hull as any side that can beat Rossendale needs great respect.
Hull will be without Stuart Nell who is still injured but will be hoping that winger Ashley Smith will be back in time from his appearance in the Jamaica seven a side team . Prop Dominic Hardman should also be back after being away with the Yorkshire U20’s side and the rest of the squad should be fit for this final game of the season.
Hull’s forwards will need to get on top of the Kendal eight and retaining possession to achieve continuity and build pressure will be essential.
Those with a good enough memory will recall the first game of the season at Kendal when Hull just scraped home by a single point so it would be fitting finale to the season for Hull to show their true from and win with something to spare.
Richard Gore
HULL RUGBY UNION FOOTBALL CLUB 