Huddersfield edge Hull FC to claim back-to-back Super League wins

At the John Smith's Stadium, Huddersfield Giants came from behind to defeat Hull FC 22-16 in the Betfred Super League. The victory gave Huddersfield their second consecutive league win, following last weekend’s triumph at York that ended a 12-match losing streak. The Giants remain at the foot of the table, but are now only two points behind Hull, whose own run of defeats has stretched to seven games.

Huddersfield opened the scoring when Chris Patolo forced his way over after taking an inside pass. Hull responded with tries from Joe Batchelor and Davy Litten, moving into a 10-6 lead by the interval. Shortly after the restart, Connor Wrench grounded a hacked kick to put the hosts ahead, but Litten then completed his brace after a break by Ethan O’Neill, and Zak Hardaker’s goal made it 16-12. Lewis Jagger dived in at the right corner to level for Huddersfield, and George Flanagan crossed after a high tackle on the visitors gave the Giants excellent field position, with Tui Lolohea supplying the pass.

In the penultimate minute, Hull thought they had equalised through Joe Batchelor, but the video referee ruled that the visitors were offside in the build-up, ending their hopes. Huddersfield coach Jim Lenihan told BBC Radio Leeds it was pleasing to win without a great performance, adding that his team are not flying but have turned a corner. Hull interim boss Andy Last said the manner of the loss was disappointing, and cited discipline as a significant issue after giving away cheap penalties and high tackles.