Hull FC v Castleford Tigers: Super League Super 8s preview
Last Updated: 06/08/16 2:37pm
Wembley-bound Hull FC look to step up their bid for the treble when the Super 8s continue on Friday night, live on Sky Sports 2 HD from 7.30pm.
Hull can expect a heroes' return to the KCOM Stadium after clinching both top spot at the end of the regular 23-game Super League campaign and a place in the cup final since their last appearance in front of their own fans three weeks ago.
Castleford are the visitors and coach Daryl Powell knows it will be a tough ask to repeat their 31-24 victory at the KCOM Stadium in February.
"Hull have played some great rugby league this season," Powell said. "They are a good side to watch and will be a tough challenge for us.
"We've got to front up and physically challenge them. Our pack have a big job on their hands this week and we are aware of that."
Hull went through the motions after limping into the Super 8s last season but their remarkable transformation has been rewarded with an extra home game, which coach Lee Radford believes could prove crucial.
"Having four home games is hugely important," said Radford. "It makes a difference having the home crowd on your side, that's for sure.
"Last season we didn't have much to play for in the Super 8s but we have everything to play for now. So it's really important we make the most of having those home games."
Radford will keep changes to a minimum while the Tigers hope to have experienced prop Lee Jewitt back from injury, along with Rangi Chase and Luke Dorn, and winger Denny Solomona - Super League's runaway leading tryscorer - is also available after missing their last match with food poisoning.
Hull FC: Jordan Abdull, Josh Bowden, Gareth Ellis, Mahe Fonua, Chris Green, Danny Houghton, Sika Manu, Steve Michaels, Mark Minichiello, Frank Pritchard, Jamie Shaul, Marc Sneyd, Fetuli Talanoa, Scott Taylor, Jordan Thompson, Carlos Tuimavave, Danny Washbrook, Liam Watts, Kirk Yeaman.
Castleford Tigers: Rangi Chase, Matt Cook, Ben Crooks, Luke Dorn, Luke Gale, Ryan Hampshire, Oliver Holmes, Lee Jewitt, Will Maher, Frankie Mariano, Paul McShane, Grant Millington, Adam Milner, Greg Minikin, Junior Moors, Larne Patrick, Andre Savelio, Denny Solomona, Gadwin Springer.