SAINTS’ recent revival was halted as Hull FC grabbed a deserved 19-12 win at the KC Stadium.
Tied 12-12 at the hour mark, with momentum on their side, Nathan Brown’s men looked set to extend their advantage at the top of the table.
But Mickey Paea’s try ultimately sealed victory for Hull after Saints spurned several chances.
In both halves they lacked that killer touch even though they got off to a great start in each.
They dominated the early stages of the match and led through Tommy Makinson’s excellent score.
But when they failed to take full advantage Hull struck back.
Firstly, Richard Horne went in from close range and then Tom Lineham did the same.
In the second half, Paul Wellens went over for his 230th try in the Red Vee – and 1001st point – before Paea forced his way over.
Joe Westerman then added a penalty and a drop goal to give his side the spoils.
With a new half back partnership Saints needed their ‘middle’ to be on their mettle if they were going to be successful.
Jordan Turner came into the halves with Gary Wheeler whilst Josh Jones moved back into the centres.
And it was the forwards that ensured Saints had that good start.
Mark Flanagan’s kick on the last forced a drop out and then Makinson promptly scored.
Sia Soliola set up the field position and Paul Wellens and Josh Jones kept it alive to give the winger a shot.
And he didn’t disappoint, cutting inside and nipping through three defenders for the first try – coming after just four minutes.
Saints almost scored again from the restart but couldn’t find a way through; and they then defended a drop out.
That came to nothing and they almost doubled their advantage again when Hull knocked on.
It has hacked up the field for Matty Dawson to chase but Tom Lineham dove bravely on the ball.
Ultimately, Saints couldn’t afford to pass up those opportunities and after two penalties drove Hull FC up the field they were reminded why.
FC looked lively and Richard Horne dummied and found space on the right hand side.
Joe Westerman doing what Mark Percival did for the visitors and converting.
Both sides then exchanged minor chances before Hull went ahead.
Saints were forced to drop out – but had a fair shout for a penalty beforehand as Hull FC passed after the tackle was completed.
And from that set Lineham burrowed over.
Saints started the second half well forcing another drop out and battering the Hull line.
They then levelled up the contest.
Paul Wellens took a high ball and fed Tommy Makinson who went 60 yards.
From there, the ball came left and Willie Manu found the space for his full back, Mr St Helens, to cross for his 1001st point in the Red V.
Saints should have scored again when they gained yet another drop out but a penalty let Hull right back into it.
And following a couple of solid drives Mickey Paea barged his way over.
It was a blow and Saints very nearly crumbled.
They defended a number of repeat sets and produced some immense goal line defence to keep their hosts out.
They weren’t helped by poor handling and the loss of Alex Walmsley who was dazed after a massive hit from Setaimata Sa either.
Joe Westerman slotted over a penalty with six minutes remaining and then sealed victory with a drop goal in the dying stages.
It was a disappointing loss, but Saints do remain top of the table after Leeds were beaten at home by Bradford – and they took home the inaugural Steve Prescott Cup on aggregate too.
But as Brown said after the match there is plenty of work on.
Match Summary:
Hull FC:
Tries: Horne, Lineham, Paea
Goals: Westerman (3 from 5)
Drop: Westerman
Saints:
Tries: Makinson, Wellens
Goals: Percival (2 from 2)
Penalties:
Hull FC: 8
Saints: 5
HT: 6-12
FT: 12-19
REF: Ben Thaler
ATT: TBC
Teams:
Hull FC:
20. Jamie Shaul; 5. Tom Lineham, 14. Richard Whiting, 4. Kirk Yeaman, 34. Fetuli Talanoa; 37. Jordan Abdull, 6. Richard Horne; 8. Mickey Paea, 9. Danny Houghton, 17. Liam Watts, 11. Gareth Ellis, 21. Dean Hadley, 13. Joe Westerman.
Subs: 10. Chris Green, 26. Iafeta Paleaaesina, 28. Setaimata Sa, 33. Aaron Heremaia.
Saints:
17. Paul Wellens; 2. Tommy Makinson, 4. Josh Jones, 22. Mark Percival, 26. Matty Dawson; 24. Gary Wheeler, 3. Jordan Turner; 16. Kyle Amor, 9. James Roby, 18. Alex Walmsley, 15. Mark Flanagan, 13. Willie Manu, 11. Sia Soliola.
Subs: 8. Mose Masoe, 10. Louie McCarthy-Scarsbrook, 14. Anthony Laffranchi, 28. Luke Thompson.
