Wigan Warriors v Hull FC: Lee Radford expects physical Challenge Cup clash
Last Updated: 29/07/16 7:30pm
Lee Radford believes his Hull FC side will need to fight fire with fire when they take on Wigan Warriors in the Challenge Cup semi-final on Friday night.
The Super League leaders travel to the Keepmoat Stadium, battling it out with Wigan for a place at Wembley and keep their dreams of emulating Leeds' treble from last season alive.
Standing in their way are 19-time Challenge Cup winners Wigan Warriors and head coach Radford is expecting a physical battle against Shaun Wane's side.
"They're a physical team and you've got to show some physicality to beat them," he said.
"But one thing we're very confident about is our own ability. If we get our jobs right on Friday then we'll go a long way in getting the result.
"It's how they start which is where they are strong. The opening exchanges of each half will be really important for us as a team."
Hull return to the Keepmaot Stadium for the first time since their 32-24 semi-final win over Wakefield Trinity Wildcats eight years ago and Radford, who captained FC that day, still holds fond memories from the day and knows they have to beat the best sides if they are to grace Wembley for the first time since 2013.
"We played there in 2008 in the semi-final against Wakefield and that atmosphere is one of the best atmospheres I've been involved in a game," said Radford, who started at loose forward that day in 2008.
"The actual stadium itself is ideal for a rugby league game with the size and capacity, and the fans will have a massive influence on the performance I think.
"If we get there, we'll have beaten three of the top four teams in the league. Nothing's ever easy at this club, that's for sure. Hopefully we can beat the best again on Friday."
Wigan coach Shaun Wane irreverently referred to Hull having "10 NRL players" in his initial reaction to the semi-final draw but he is happy to acknowledge the achievements of Radford this year.
"I respect what Hull's done," he said. "Lee's done a fantastic job. The roster of players they've got is second to none. It's a big challenge for us.
"They've had no injuries and we're busted at the moment so we're under a lot of pressure, there's no doubt about that.
"But the players will be aware of what's at stake. I'm going to get people in to speak to them who have won it for Wigan in the past. Our desire will be there."
Wigan's Taulima Tautai returns from a one-game ban and replaces Frank-Paul Nuuausala, who is suspended after striking in last week's derby defeat to St Helens while prop Joe Bretherton returns to the 19 man squad in place of Jack Higginson.
While Hull welcome back utility back Carlos Tuimavave following a groin injury, whilst Liam Watts is also included despite picking up a knock in last week's win at Salford, stand-off Leon Pryce is the man to miss out.
Wigan Warriors: John Bateman, Joe Bretherton, Dom Crosby, Ben Flower, Oliver Gildart, Willie Isa, Dom Manfredi, Lee Mossop, Sean O'Loughlin, Sam Powell, Dan Sarginson, Kyle Shelford, Jake Shorrocks, Matty Smith, Ryan Sutton, Taulima Tautai, Lewis Tierney, Sam Tomkins, George Williams.
Hull FC: Jame Shaul, Mahe Fonua, Carlos Tuimavave, Fetuli Talanoa, Marc Sneyd, Scott Taylor, Danny Houghton, Liam Watts, Gareth Ellis, Mark Minichiello, Jordan Abdull, Chris Green, Jordan Thompson, Steve Michaels, Sika Manu, Josh Bowden, Frank Pritchard, Kirk Yeaman, Danny Washbrook.