Brown reveals Ellis’ impact on his game
YOUNG Hull FC prop Jack Brown sometimes forgets he’s being coached by the legendary Gaz Ellis because it feels “just like talking with anybody.”
But the 21-year-old is under no illusion about how big an impact the ex-england forward has had on improving his game this term.
Brown has become a mainstay of Brett Hodgson’s side and assistant coach Ellis renowned as one of the world’s greatest forwards - has had a valuable input.
“He’s been massive for me and I think he’s part of the reason I’ve played so many games this year,” said Brown.
“He’s always doing review with me, pointing out where I’ve to tidy up but also showing stuff that I’m good at, filling me with confidence. I appreciate stuff like that. I love working under him.”
Ellis, 41, starred with Leeds Rhinos and was a huge hit in Australia with Wests Tigers before coming home.
He famously captained Hull to Challenge Cup wins in 2016 and 2017 and - having come out of retirement - was propping the day Brown made his debut in Perpignan in 2019.
Asked if he has to pinch himself knowing he has such a legend tutoring him in the arts of forward play, Brown said: “Sometimes you can be guilty of forgetting as he’s such a good bloke. It can be just like talking to anybody. But if you think about it, what he’s done in the game, he is a legend.”
Brown was looking forward to returning to Catalans on Saturday given he scored a try with his first touch on debut in a thrilling 31-30 victory there three years ago.
He recalled: “I just remember getting told the day before the game I’d be playing. I was shocked. I had to ring my mum and dad to tell them to book flights.
“I’ll always remember them all rushing around to try and get there. Luckily they managed to get across from a little airport in Luton. It was a really special occasion.
“The game went in a flash but I scored with my first touch and it couldn’t have gone any better.”
Marc Sneyd struck a Golden Point drop-goal winner that day but Hull were on the wrong end of a similar scenario last Sunday.
They lost 19-18 at Wakefield with Luke Gale missing two drop goal efforts.