Call to show 'mettle' after confidence-denting losses

FC LOOK TO REFIND WINNING WAYS

- By DAN TOMLINSON

John Cartwright has conceded that Hull FC's confidence has been "dented" after recent results. However, the head coach maintains the belief that his side can get back to earning their desired results so long as they keep up the "mettle" within their performance and add some "polish".

The Black and Whites avoided defeat in eight of their opening ten games this season but have lost their last three - a reality that leaves them clinging onto their current play-off position.

And while there is no panic with 17 rounds still to go this season, Cartwright knows that his side needs to pick themselves up quickly and ensure they get back to the standards set earlier this year.

They are boosted with the return of Brad Fash for this Friday's clash at Leeds Rhinos and have comeback dates in sight for the likes of Jed Cartwright, Jordan Lane, and Liam Watts. That will help Hull's cause, who, along with Oliver Holmes, have suffered from a back row shortage that has stifled other positions with players covering elsewhere.

Cartwright is still happy with the conduct of his squad given that reality but has also conceded the need for improvement. That improvement is centred around the discipline aspects of Hull's game, with Cartwright desiring some leadership from his senior players - starting at Headingley for what is an important fixture against a Yorkshire rival.