Following their impressive victory at Blaydon last week, achieved with only 14 men for the second half, Hull face a very different challenge this weekend. Fylde have lost just three games – to Sedgley Park, Rotherham and Luctonians.
All these of those games were away from home and at least two were at a time when Fylde had serious front row problems. These issues have addressed and a victory last week against the then leaders Stourbridge would suggest they are now back to full strength after recruiting well from local clubs like Lymm.
On their day, Fylde have good attacking flair as the 80 points they scored against Bournville is ample testimony. Hull will most likely be without Latu Maakafi in the backrow due to suspension, but we could see prop Ben Bootham, hooker Ali Thompson and winger Mike Adlard come back into contention.
Last week saw Gregory Jones fit in well in the second row and Calum Turner make a solid debut on the wing. Selection will be tough with players returning after injury and unavailability, but competition for places helps to give the side an extra edge.
Hull will need this on Saturday if they are to beat one of their serious rivals at the top end of the league. But if Hull are at their best they can put pressure on the sides above them with victory in their last home game of 2021.
Richard Gore
HULL RUGBY UNION FOOTBALL CLUB 