In a one-sided contest at the MKM Stadium, St Helens delivered a masterclass performance, defeating Hull FC 46-6 in the Betfred Super League. The result, showcasing St Helens' attacking prowess and defensive discipline, not only cemented their place as heavyweights in the league but also served as a stark reminder of their championship ambitions.
From the outset, it was clear that St Helens were in commanding form. The match opened with a high tempo, but both teams initially struggled to find their rhythm. However, St Helens quickly settled into their game and capitalized on early opportunities. By the end of the first half, they had established a comfortable 10-0 lead, thanks to two well-executed tries from the dynamic young half-back, Lewis Dodd. His agility and vision were instrumental in breaking through Hull’s defensive line, setting the tone for the rest of the match.
As the second half kicked off, Hull FC was in desperate need of a response to change the course of the game. However, the home side found themselves overwhelmed by St Helens' relentless attack. The visitors quickly added to their score, with tries coming thick and fast. Tommy Makinson continued to shine, demonstrating why he is regarded as one of the league’s best finishers, scoring two tries and successfully converting seven attempts throughout the match. His accuracy and poise under pressure kept St Helens well ahead on the scoreboard.
St Helens’ forward pack, led by the powerful impact of forward Addin Fonua-Blake, dominated the physical exchanges, proving too much for Hull FC to handle. Their aggressive line speed disrupted Hull’s attacking plays, leading to a torrent of chances on the opposite end of the field. Additional tries from Clark, Whitley, Burns (who scored twice), and Paasi only compounded the misery for Hull, reflecting St Helens’ depth of talent and strategic execution.
For Hull FC, the lone highlight came in the form of a consolation try from Jake Walker. Despite his side's struggles, Walker's hard work and tenacity were a silver lining among their heavy defeat. His effort was a reminder that even in challenging matches, individual brilliance can shine through. However, the team as a whole struggled to maintain possession and fell into a pattern of turnovers that St Helens was quick to exploit.
The final whistle blew with a staggering score of 46-6 in favor of St Helens, and the match stats painted a clear picture of dominance. St Helens' clinical execution and strategic approach left Hull FC looking for answers, as they fell behind the pace of the competition. Post-match discussions will inevitably focus on Hull’s need for a robust response in upcoming fixtures, as the stakes continue to rise in the Betfred Super League.
While the loss is a setback for Hull FC, St Helens will relish this victory as a significant boost in their campaign. With the playoffs looming, consistency will be key for St Helens as they look to build momentum and ultimately challenge for the Super League title.
Purchase editorial images from this game here: Click to view images
