Playing full-back was surprise, says Swift
ADAM Swift has spoken of his surprise to be named in the full-back role for Saturday’s clash with Wigan Warriors.
Hull FC sealed their place in the Challenge Cup semi-finals with a 20-10 win over Wigan Warriors at Headingley in their best performance of the season so far.
With Jake Connor serving a one-game ban, Swift was the man chosen to play at full-back for the Black and Whites, despite his lack of experience in the role.
Brett Hodgson has been keen to see him learn the full-back ropes since the start of preseason and after training there last week, he took to the role with ease with a commanding performance.
The winger spent around 60 minutes playing as a number one, swallowing up everything Wigan threw at him and stepping into the line with regularity to get involved with some strong carries.
He moved back into his more natural position on the edge, as specialist full-back Connor Wynne was introduced in place of Josh Griffin, who left the field with a head injury.
And, he capped a fine afternoon in the cup with a try on the hooter, capitalising on a mistake from Willie Isa before charging 80 metres to touch down under the posts and seal a memorable victory.
“I haven’t played at full-back since 2011 for Whitehaven,” Swift told FC’S official website.
“I’ve trained there all week after getting the nod so I had plenty of time to prepare, but I think I did a decent job there. It’s another string added to the bow.
“It was a bit of a surprise. I’ve filled in at fullback in training before, but Brett was confident in me.
“For me to get the nod meant I had to take my opportunity with both hands when there are plenty of other talented boys who could have slotted in there.”