Hull entertain third-placed Blaydon this weekend as they start the post Christmas fixture list aiming to consolidate their position at the top of the league.
Hull edged out Blaydon in earlier in the season with a narrow 26-24 victory on Tyneside and will need to banish any thoughts of an easy game as their visitors have had something of a ”Hull” style points fest in their last five fixtures. Scoring an average of over 35 points a game and winning by good margins against Ilkley, Wilmslow, Kendal, Kirby Lonsdale and Alnwick just underlines Blaydon’s ability to score tries.
Hull have had a great run and having convincingly beat Billingham and Sandal as well as overcoming Harrogate recently they have every reason to be confident.
Hull’s back division always poses a threat and the tactical awareness of fly-half Simon Humberstone has played a significant part in their effectiveness.
Hull’s forward play has been impressive despite losing lineout ball in some games. Their ability to dominate at the scrummage and drive sides back with powerful running and good support play has been one of the keys to the side’s recent success.
If Hull can recreate their pre-Christmas form they will be a handful for Blaydon, but they would be wise to take Blaydon’s recent form into account. Blaydon have shaken off some early season set backs and look to have an eye on a play-off place, but Hull should have the edge if they play at the top of their game.
Richard Gore
HULL RUGBY UNION FOOTBALL CLUB 