Hull FC set to bring in big names after defeat to Bradford Bulls
This is because his young side battled hard against Bradford Bulls senior players before a more even game emerged in the second half as Hull battled back from 28-6 down at halftime and 34-18 down in the second half to nearly snatch a draw missing a late shot at goal which would have tied the game at 34-all.
After the game, Smith spoke to the club’s official website and reflected on what was an encouraging second half: “I understand that Bradford took a few of their more experienced players off later in the game, and it was more of an even contest in terms of age groups, but it was a good experience for our boys, and to take lessons in both halves is very pleasing.”
Smith also heaped particular praise on the six academy players who featured in the match all of whom are still down as simply academy players and not yet in the first team:
“I thought they were terrific—all six of them. They enjoyed it. I thought our bench actually helped us when they came on. They lifted us. Some of those young blokes were making their first outing in a senior game. They gave a really good account of themselves.
“It’s encouraging. We’ve got plenty more work to do there, but it’s encouraging for those young players to get a crack at it. It’s good for the club to push those players through and help them develop. It’s certainly the way we’re going to go in the future.”
Next week Hull FC take on Doncaster and Tony Smith revealed that the club will be turning to more experienced players but some youngsters have earned their spot for next week: “We’ll be going with a new squad altogether, but certainly some of those boys have earned the right to join us next week. I’ll look forward to seeing their second outing.”
This begs the question: could we see debuts for the likes of Liam Tindall and a second debut for former Leeds Rhinos and Hull KR star Jack Walker? Time will tell.
Smith also heaped particular praise on the six academy players who featured in the match all of whom are still down as simply academy players and not yet in the first team:
“I thought they were terrific—all six of them. They enjoyed it. I thought our bench actually helped us when they came on. They lifted us. Some of those young blokes were making their first outing in a senior game. They gave a really good account of themselves.
“It’s encouraging. We’ve got plenty more work to do there, but it’s encouraging for those young players to get a crack at it. It’s good for the club to push those players through and help them develop. It’s certainly the way we’re going to go in the future.”