CON TRICKS A TREAT
Jake’s Hull packing a big punch
JAKE CONNOR’S licence to thrill has got underachievers Hull dreaming of becoming heavyweight contenders.
Hull have flattered to deceive too often in recent years, but new coach Brett Hodgson looks to have found a winning formula.
And leading the way for him is maverick full-back Connor with another eye-catching performance.
The England player can blow hot or cold – but was on fire against a Salford side who were disappointing for the second week running.
He set up two tries and then led from the front when big-hitting halfbacks Josh Reynolds and Marc Sneyd went off injured midway through the second half.
Connor said: “Consistency is the key for us. Our defence is getting better each week and the boys are working harder for each other.
“The new coach suits me with him being a full-back and former Man of Steel. I am learning off him. He is giving me tips and it seems to be working.”
This win was arguably the best display of the second round – just as their impressive win over Huddersfield was the pick of the first weekend – and it bodes well for Hull.
Hodgson (above) said: “In the first half we made it difficult for ourselves because we didn’t ice a couple of opportunities. We have to learn to
be patient and earn the right to play attacking rugby.”
But Salford already look to have problems under new boss Richard Marshall, especially with an attack that has only scored two tries in two games. Marshall said: “We were out-enthused and our energy levels were low. We will learn from adversity.”
Hull dominated with tries from Andre Savelio, Josh Griffin and Cameron Scott, plus two from Reynolds. Salford’s only consolation was an effort from winger Ken Sio.
Reynolds has a hamstring injury but Hull won’t know the severity of it until midweek. Sneyd came off with a dead leg.
SALFORD: Try: Sio
HULL FC: Tries: Savelio, Reynolds (2), Griffin, Scott. Goals: Sneyd (5), Connor (2). Drop Goal: Connor.