Hull travel to Rotherham on Saturday to take on one of the three remaining unbeaten sides in National 2 North. The other two unbeaten sides are Stourbridge, who beat Hull by just two points with a last minute penalty, and Sedgley Park who drew with Rotherham earlier in the campaign.
Rotherham are one of the North of England’s most famous clubs having risen from being a good local side in the 1980’s to become Premiership and Championship regulars over the last 25 years. Hull are well aware of this pedigree, but they are focused on this league season where they have much success so far.
Their defensive record in this league is second to none and they sit second in the table on merit. However, there is no doubt this weekend’s game will be a significant test of Hull’s abilities. The game will not define the season, but it will be important as both sides look like capable of challenging for a top half finish or better in this league.
Hull hope to welcome back prop Charlie Beech, off half Simon Humberstone and full back Steve McColl into the squad. Hull have played few of the opponents that Rotherham have overcome so far, but both teams have played Luctonians. Hull found them obdurate, but won the fixture 27-8 whereas Rotherham won 37-22 and were a little disappointed to have shipped 22 points.
Rotherham also have an impressive win over ambitious Fylde to their credit which cannot be ignored. On paper, there is not much to choose between the sides and an intriguing tactical battle is in prospect.
Hull have a great team spirit, a togetherness which is exemplified in their defensive record and the ability to keep playing and getting stronger in the second half of the games they have played so far. Hull have every chance to record another win, but it is likely to be a very close game where game management and discipline will play a key role if Hull are to bring home the spoils.
Richard Gore
HULL RUGBY UNION FOOTBALL CLUB 