Having had their game against league leaders Leeds postponed last week, Hull resume their campaign against Billingham who sit at the foot of the table. Despite the gulf in league positions between their two would-be opponents, Hull would do well to respect this week’s adversaries.
In the game between the two sides earlier this season Hull raced into a commanding 33-0 lead which ended up as a half-time 40-7 lead. Hull failed to score in the second period and a final score line of 40-26 was a lot closer than Hull were comfortable with.
That is a few months ago and Billingham have had a tough season, but wins against Otley, Hull Ionians and Harrogate would suggest that on their day they can give a very good account of themselves.
Hull should have a good squad to choose from as this will be their first game since the nail-biting victory against Hull Ionians before Christmas. Hull’s pack may hold the key to this game with their solid work at first phase and with players with the power to get over the gain line.
If that can be achieved then Hull have backs who can make use of any space created. The team is likely to be close to that selected for last week’s postponed game, but pacy winger Harry Dawkins is now available and is a proven tryscorer and will stake a claim to be involved.
Billingham are no pushovers despite their league standing and have the advantage of playing regularly on an all-weather artificial pitch. A win for Hull is a real possibility, but the home side need points desperately so Hull beware.
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